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Last Name Le-bihan

What is the origin of the last name Le-bihan?

The surname "Le Bihan" is of Breton origin. It is primarily found in the Brittany region of France. The name is derived from the Breton words "bihan," meaning "small" or "little," and "le," a male definite article. Therefore, "Le Bihan" translates to "the little one" or "the small one" in English. It is a common surname in Brittany and often has variations such as "Bihan" or "Lebihan."

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Le-bihan

The meaning and origin of the last name Le-bihan

The surname Le Bihan has its origin in the region of Brittany, which is located in the northwest of France. Derived from the Breton language, the name "le bihan" translates to "the small" or "the little." It is believed that this surname was originally used as a descriptive nickname to distinguish someone of small stature or a short individual. Common in the Breton culture, surnames often served as identifiers for specific individuals within a community. Over time, these surnames became hereditary, passed down from generation to generation. The name Le Bihan may also be seen with variants such as Le Bihanet or Labihan. As with many surnames, variations and modifications may have occurred over time due to different dialects, regional influences, or changes in spelling conventions. Today, individuals with the surname Le Bihan can still be found primarily in the Brittany region of France.

Geographical distribution of the last name Le-bihan

The last name "Le Bihan" is predominantly found in France, particularly in the region of Brittany. This region, located in the northwest of the country, has a significant concentration of individuals with the surname. Within Brittany, cities such as Vannes, Lorient, Quimper, and Brest are known to have a relatively high number of people with this last name. The origins of the name can be traced back to the Breton language, which is spoken in this region. However, it is worth noting that while the majority of individuals with the surname are found in France, there may be a small number of individuals with the name in other countries due to migration or emigration. Nevertheless, the overwhelming majority of individuals with the last name Le Bihan are likely to be found in Brittany, France.

Variants and spellings of the last name Le-bihan

The last name "Le Bihan" has a few variations and spellings. In French, the original form would be "Le Bihan," which translates to "The Bihan" in English. However, due to different transliteration rules and regional accents, variations in spelling and pronunciation have emerged. Common alternative spellings include "Lebihan," "Lebihen," and "Le Bihanne." Occasionally, the surname may be shortened to a single word, such as "Bihan" or "Bihanne." It is worth noting that historical influences from colonization or migration can contribute to further variations in different countries. For example, in English-speaking regions, one might encounter anglicized versions like "The Little John," "Beehan," or "Labeon." Additionally, individual family branches may have developed their own unique spellings over time, contributing to even more diversity within the Le Bihan surname. Overall, these variations reflect the natural evolution and adaptation of surnames over generations.

Famous people with the last name Le-bihan

It is difficult to find well-known individuals with the last name Le Bihan, as it does not appear to be a particularly common surname. However, one notable person with this surname is French actor Vincent Le Bihan. He has appeared in various French films and television series, gaining recognition for his roles in movies like "Queen Margot" (1994) and "The Straight Story" (1999). Another individual worth mentioning is François Le Bihan, a French football player who played as a midfielder for several clubs, including Rennes and Guingamp. While their fame may not transcend international borders, Vincent Le Bihan and François Le Bihan have made significant contributions to their respective fields, earning them recognition within the French entertainment and sports industries.

Genealogical research on the last name Le-bihan

The last name Le Bihan is a Breton surname, primarily found in the region of Brittany in northwestern France. The name has its roots in the Breton language, with "le" meaning "the" and "bihan" meaning "little" or "small." The surname appears to have originated as a descriptive term, likely given to differentiate individuals who were smaller in stature within a particular community. The research on the genealogy of the Le Bihan family reveals a long history deeply connected to the Breton culture. It can be traced back several centuries, showcasing the family's ties to the historical and cultural heritage of Brittany. The Le Bihan lineage has been established through various genealogical records, including birth, marriage, and death certificates, as well as census data, church records, and family correspondence. By uncovering this information, it enables descendants of the Le Bihan family to understand their ancestral roots and connect with their Breton heritage.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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