The surname Lazard is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "l'aizier," which means "elder" or "elder tree." This surname was often given as an occupational name to someone who worked with elder trees, such as a charcoal burner or a basket maker. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname for someone thought to be strong or lively, as the elder tree is known for its hardiness and vitality. Over time, the surname has evolved into various forms, including Lazard, Lasser, Laszlo, and others, in different parts of Europe and among communities with diverse ethnic backgrounds due to migration and assimilation.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Lazard
The surname Lazard is of Old French origin, derived from the personal name "Lazar", which was a variant form of "Eleazar". Eleazar is a biblical name, appearing in both the Old and New Testaments, most notably associated with the biblical figure Eleazar son of Aaron in the Book of Exodus. Over time, the personal name Lazar evolved into the surname Lazard, primarily among French-speaking populations. The name may also have been used as a nickname for someone who was thought to be lively or spirited, as "Lazare" is French for "lively". Throughout history, various notable individuals with the surname Lazard have made significant contributions in various fields, such as finance, politics, and academia.
Geographical distribution of the last name Lazard
The surname Lazard is predominantly of Jewish origin and has its roots in France. It derives from the Old French term "l'aigle" meaning 'eagle', and was often used as a metaphorical name for someone who was strong, powerful, or courageous. Today, a significant concentration of individuals with the last name Lazard can still be found in France, particularly in regions such as Paris, Alsace, and the Rhône-Alpes. Outside of France, there are also notable populations of Lazards in other French-speaking countries like Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada. In the United States, New York City is home to a large number of individuals with the last name Lazard due to historical Jewish immigration from Europe. Additionally, there are communities of Lazards in Israel, where many Jews with European roots have relocated.
Variants and spellings of the last name Lazard
The surname Lazard has various spellings and variations, reflecting differences in pronunciation and regional influence over time. Here are some common versions:
1. Lazard - the original French spelling, which is most commonly found among individuals with French or Jewish heritage.
2. Lasard - an alternative spelling of the same French origin.
3. Lasar - a variant often associated with Sephardic Jewish families who were originally from Spain and Portugal.
4. Lazarus - a more anglicized version, derived from the Hebrew Eliaszer (Elijah), which could have been adopted by some Jewish families immigrating to English-speaking countries.
5. Lasardo - an Italian variation, possibly a derivative of the French Lazard but with slight phonetic changes due to different languages and regional dialects.
6. Lazaroff or Lazareff - Russian adaptations of the surname, influenced by Cyrillic script conventions for spelling names.
7. Lasser or Laizer - Anglicized versions that might have arisen when Jewish immigrants changed their names to blend in with local populations during periods of religious persecution.
8. Lazaro - a Spanish version, which could also be found among families with Sephardic heritage who migrated from Spain and Portugal.
9. Lascerte or Lascard - historical variants of the surname that have become less common over time.
Famous people with the last name Lazard
The Lazard surname is associated with several notable figures in various fields. One of the most prominent is Jacques David Lazarus, who anglicized his name to Jacob Henry Schiff and became a renowned banker and philanthropist in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Germany, he immigrated to the U.S. and founded Kuhn, Loeb & Co., one of the leading investment banks of its time. Another prominent Lazard is Pierre Lazard, a French politician who served as Minister of National Education during the short-lived Second French Empire. In the world of art, Elie Lazarus was an influential American art critic and historian known for his work on African American art. Lastly, Alexis Lazard, a French professional footballer, currently plays for the French club Angers SCO and the France national team.
Genealogical research on the last name Lazard
The Lazard surname is of French origin and is believed to have derived from the Old German word "Laschard," meaning "protector" or "guardian." The family can be traced back to the 12th century in France, with one of the earliest known records being Hugues de Lascy, a knight who served under King Philip II. Over time, various branches of the Lazard family emerged across Europe, including in England, Germany, and Poland. The Lazarus family in England, originating from Lorraine in France, are often erroneously associated with the Lazards due to similarities in their names. Notable members of the Lazard family include Jacques de la Brosse Lazard, a French banker who founded the Banque Lazard in 1848; and Albert Lazard, an American financier and philanthropist.
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