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Last Name Perrault

What is the origin of the last name Perrault?

The last name "Perrault" has French origins. It is derived from the Old French word "Pierre," meaning "stone," combined with the diminutive suffix "-ault." "Perrault" can be loosely translated as "little stone" or "small rock." This surname was likely used to describe someone who lived near or worked with stones, or it could have been an occupational name for a stonemason or quarry worker. "Perrault" is a relatively common surname in France and further dispersed through French immigration to other parts of the world.

origin of the last name Perrault

Learn more about the origin of the last name Perrault

The meaning and origin of the last name Perrault

The surname Perrault is of French origin and has various meanings associated with it. One possible meaning of the name is "little stone," derived from the Old French word "pierre" meaning "stone." Another interpretation suggests that the name originated from the word "perro" or "pied," which means "foot," indicating a person who is swift in their movement. Additionally, Perrault could be derived from the word "peral" meaning "pear tree," which may have been a surname given to people with a connection to cultivating or selling pears. The surname Perrault has a notable historical significance as well. It is most famously associated with Charles Perrault (1628-1703), a renowned French author, who is known for his contributions to fairy tales such as Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Little Red Riding Hood. Charles Perrault's prominence in the literary world has led to the surname being linked to creativity, storytelling, and innovation.

Geographical distribution of the last name Perrault

The last name Perrault has a widespread geographical distribution, mainly concentrated in France and Canada. In France, the name is quite common and can be found throughout various regions, including Normandy, Brittany, and the Parisian area. In Canada, the name is primarily found in the province of Quebec, where it traces back to French colonization during the 17th and 18th centuries. Due to the historical ties and French influence in Quebec, the Perrault name has retained its prominence and can be found in cities like Montreal and Quebec City. However, it's worth noting that the name does exist beyond these regions, as individuals with the last name Perrault may have migrated to other parts of Canada and even other countries around the world. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Perrault is indicative of its origins and the migrations of individuals throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Perrault

The last name Perrault can have several variations and spellings. One common variation is Perot, which is seen as a phonetic alternative. Another variation is Perreault, which tends to be more common among French-speaking regions. Additionally, the name may appear as Parot, Perraud, Perault, Perrand, or Perreaux. These spellings can be influenced by regional accents and dialects, migration patterns, and the passage of time. In some cases, individuals may have altered the spelling of their name for personal or administrative reasons. It is important to note that the spelling variations of Perrault mentioned here are not exhaustive, as the name may possess even more diverse spellings across different communities and generations. The flexibility in spelling reflects the way a name can evolve and adapt to different linguistic contexts over time.

Famous people with the last name Perrault

Charles Perrault (1628-1703) was a renowned French author and member of the Académie Française. He is best known for his collection of fairy tales, "Contes de ma mère l'Oye," published in 1697. Perrault's tales, including "Cinderella," "Little Red Riding Hood," and "Sleeping Beauty," became classic stories that have been celebrated worldwide for centuries. François Perrault (1905-1992) was a distinguished French architect and urban planner. He played a vital role in the reconstruction of Le Havre after it was heavily damaged during World War II. Perrault's innovative designs and modernist approach to architecture earned him international recognition. One of his notable works includes the award-winning Pompidou Center in Paris, which he collaborated on with architectural firm Renzo Piano Building Workshop. Emmanuelle Perrault is a prominent French politician and member of the National Assembly. She has served as a representative for the La République En Marche! party since 2017. Perrault specializes in issues related to health and social affairs, and she actively promotes policies aimed at improving the well-being of citizens. Her dedication and influence in the political arena have made her a respected figure in France.

Genealogical research on the last name Perrault

The last name Perrault has its origins in France. It is derived from the Old French word "perro(t)," meaning partridge, and the suffix "-ault," which is a patronymic suffix indicating "son of." Therefore, the name Perrault can be roughly translated to mean "son of the partridge." The surname can be traced back to the Middle Ages, and it is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was skilled in hunting partridges or had a particular fondness for the bird. Over time, the name Perrault spread throughout different regions of France, including Paris, Normandy, and Brittany. Today, descendants of the Perrault family can be found in various parts of the world, as individuals with this surname have migrated and settled in different countries due to various historical events, such as the French Revolution or seeking new opportunities elsewhere.

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