Last Name Odiot

The surname Odiot is believed to have origins in France. It is derived from a geographical location, specifically from a place named "Odiot" located in the Yvelines department near Paris. Surnames originating from geographical locations were common in medieval Europe as they often identified where an individual came from or owned property. The name was likely brought to England during the Norman Conquest of 1066 and has been passed down through generations since then.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Odiot

The meaning and origin of the last name Odiot

The surname Odiot is of French origin, derived from various place names in France where it was first used as a nickname for someone who came from one of these locations. One such example is Odiot, a commune located in the Marne department in northeastern France, which dates back to the early Middle Ages. The name itself is believed to be derived from the Old French word "odiot," meaning "badger" or "weasel," suggesting that an early inhabitant of this area may have been associated with these animals. Over time, the surname Odiot spread beyond France and can now be found in various parts of the world, reflecting the migration patterns of its bearers over centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Odiot

The last name Odiot is primarily concentrated in France, with significant concentrations in regions such as Franche-Comté and Bourgogne, particularly in the departments of Doubs, Jura, and Côte-d'Or. Historically, the name may have originated from these areas. Small clusters can also be found in other parts of Europe, including Belgium, Switzerland, and Luxembourg, due to migration and historical ties with France. Outside of Europe, there are fewer occurrences of the surname Odiot. This geographical distribution suggests a strong association of the name with French-speaking regions, particularly in Eastern France.

Variants and spellings of the last name Odiot

The surname Odiot has several variants and spellings, primarily due to differences in spelling conventions, phonetic transliteration, and historical changes in naming practices. Some variations of the surname include Odiot, Odyot, Audiot, Audiot-Dufresne, Audiot-Dufrane, and others. These variations may arise from regional dialects, errors during data entry, or intentional modifications over time. It's essential to consider these variants when conducting genealogical research or verifying personal records. However, it is crucial to note that the primary spelling of this surname is Odiot.

Famous people with the last name Odiot

Notable individuals bearing the surname Odiot include:

1. Charles Odiot (1762-1814), a French porcelain painter known for his work at Sèvres, producing decorative pieces during the Neoclassical era. His famous works include designs for Napoleon Bonaparte's coronation and the Wedgwood service for George III of England.

2. Jacques Odiot (1768-1859), a French sculptor who specialized in figurines, medals, and engravings. He was a pupil of Pierre-Philippe Thomire and is recognized for his contributions to the Sèvres Porcelain Manufactory.

3. Eugène Odiot (1804-1869), a French painter, sculptor, and decorator who primarily worked on religious themes and was part of the Romantic movement in France during the 19th century. He exhibited his works at the Paris Salon multiple times.

These notable figures have made significant contributions to various artistic fields, particularly in France during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Genealogical research on the last name Odiot

The surname Odiot is believed to have originated from France. According to genealogical records, the earliest known mention of this family name was in the 12th century in Normandy. Notable individuals with the last name Odiot include Nicolas Odiot, a prominent Huguenot minister who emigrated to the Netherlands during the French religious wars in the 16th century, and Auguste-Arthur-Joseph Odiot, a French politician who served as Mayor of Montdidier from 1870 to 1873. The Odiots are known to have migrated to various regions within France, including the Normandy, Picardy, and Franche-Comté regions. Records also show that some members of the family emigrated to other countries such as England, America, and Canada.

The Odiot family name is thought to have originated from the Old French 'odier', meaning 'to smell' or 'to stink'. This could possibly be a reference to a professional occupation related to tanning hides or leatherworking. The family may have taken their surname from a place named with this word, as many French surnames originate from geographical locations. However, the exact origins and meanings of the name remain subject to further research and study.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Odiot"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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 : 28 July 2025

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