What is the origin of the last name Lelarget?

The surname Lelargent is of French origin. It is derived from a given name, "Largent," which was an old occupational name for a purse-bearer or treasurer, derived from the Old French word "largent" meaning "treasury." In some cases, it may have also been a topographic name for someone who lived near a large clearing, from the Old French words "large" (large) and "ert" (field). As with many surnames of this type, it is possible that multiple branches of the Lelargent family originated from different regions in France.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Lelarget

The meaning and origin of the last name Lelarget

The surname Lelargent is believed to have French origins, specifically from the Normandy region. It is derived from the Old French word "largent," meaning "generous" or "prosperous." The name was often given as a nickname to someone who was perceived as generous or wealthy, or it could have been used as a topographical name for someone who lived near a wide or spacious area. Over time, the spelling of the surname has evolved from various regional dialects and the influences of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The surname Lelargent can also be found in other countries with French influences, such as Canada and Belgium.

Geographical distribution of the last name Lelarget

The surname Lelargent is primarily found in French-speaking regions due to its origin from the Old French word "le largeant," meaning "the dweller by the wide land." It is most prevalent in France, particularly in the northern and western regions such as Normandy, Brittany, and Picardy. Outside of France, it has been carried by immigrants to various parts of the world, notably North America and Quebec in Canada, where it remains a relatively uncommon surname but with a notable presence due to French immigration waves. In the United States, Louisiana, Maine, and Vermont are among the states where Lelargent is found. The name also appears in small numbers in other English-speaking countries like England, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as in some parts of Belgium and Switzerland, reflecting historical ties between these regions and France.

Variants and spellings of the last name Lelarget

The surname Lelargent can have various spelling variations due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common versions of this surname include Lelargant, LeLargent, Le Largeant, and de Largeant. These variations are primarily a result of factors such as regional dialects, personal preference, and changes in orthography rules. In French, the name can be written with an accent on the second syllable (Lélargent) to indicate the stressed syllable more accurately. However, it is common for this accent to be omitted when spelling the name in English. Additionally, it is possible that other variations may exist based on family lineage or regional conventions.

Famous people with the last name Lelarget

Notable individuals with the surname Lelarge include:

1. Marc Lelarge (born 1943), a French mathematician and computer scientist, known for his work on algebraic geometry, automata theory, and formal languages.
2. Jean-Paul Lelarge (born 1945), a French historian and archivist, specializing in the history of art and architecture.
3. Claude Lelarge (1857–1909), a French painter and illustrator, known for his works depicting Parisian street life and landscapes.
4. Jacques Lelarge (1884–1968), a French architect who designed several notable buildings in Marseille and other cities in the South of France.
5. Jean-Pierre Lelarge (born 1937), a French actor, director, and screenwriter, who has appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career.

Genealogical research on the last name Lelarget

The Lelarget surname is of French origin, specifically from the region of Savoie in southeastern France. The name is believed to have been originally a place name, deriving from the village or hamlet of Lélargues, located near La Chambre within the department of Isère. Over time, some members of the family moved and settled across various regions of France.

The first recorded occurrence of the surname dates back to the late Middle Ages. Jean Lelarget appears in documents from Savoie in 1375. Throughout the centuries, the name has been spelled in various ways, including Lélargues, Lelarge, and Le Largent, due to differences in regional pronunciation and recording methods.

The Lelargets have contributed significantly to various occupations and professions across France, including farming, craftsmanship, military service, and the clergy. Notable figures with this surname include François Lelarge (1769-1838), a French physician and botanist who made significant contributions to the study of malaria; and Louis LeLargent (1854-1928), a Canadian politician who served as the Member of Parliament for Quebec North during the early 20th century.

Today, individuals bearing the Lelarget surname can be found in various countries due to migration, primarily to French colonies and later to North America and Australia. Genealogical research has identified several family groups and lines that have remained connected throughout history, with some families tracing their roots back to medieval France.

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NomOrigine Team
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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.

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