Last Name Plancade

The surname Plancade is believed to have French origins. It is derived from a place name, specifically from various locations named "Plan-Cade" in France, such as in the regions of Ain, Gers, and Haute-Garonne. These places were likely named for natural features, possibly referring to open plains or flat land near a body of water. The surname Plancade may have been originally used as a nickname for someone who lived near or came from such a place. However, the exact origin and early history of the name remain uncertain due to limited historical records.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Plancade

The meaning and origin of the last name Plancade

The surname Plancade is of French origin, derived from a place name or occupational title. It is believed to have originated from the region of Picardy in northern France. The name could have been originally associated with someone who resided near a 'planque', which is an old French term for a flat piece of land or clearing, or it could have been occupational, referring to someone who worked as a planter or cultivator. Over time, the name evolved into its current form as family names migrated and transformed with settlers in various regions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Plancade

The Plancade surname is predominantly found in France, with a significant concentration in the region of Picardy, particularly in the department of Oise where it originates from the commune of Plailly. It is also present in other regions such as Aisne, Somme, and Seine-et-Marne due to migration and historical events. Beyond France, there are scattered occurrences of the name in Canada, Belgium, Switzerland, and the United States, primarily among French immigrants or descendants. The distribution suggests a strong historical connection to France, particularly the northern regions, with some dispersion among French diaspora communities worldwide.

Variants and spellings of the last name Plancade

The surname Plancade has several variants and spellings due to historical transcription errors and regional dialects. Some common variations include Planquade, Plancaide, Plancat, and Plancaud. These variations may arise from different ways of spelling the name in French-speaking regions, or from changes made during immigration to other countries. Additionally, over time, some individuals might have chosen to change their family name slightly for personal reasons or due to assimilation into a new culture. These variations underscore the rich history and diverse heritage associated with the surname Plancade and its many descendants around the world.

Famous people with the last name Plancade

The Plancade family has been known for significant contributions across various fields, primarily in the arts and sciences. One of the most notable members is Michel-André Plancade (1743-1819), a French architect whose work included the Church of Saint-Benoît-le-Bétourné in Paris. In the realm of literature, Alphonse Plancade (1865-1940) was a renowned French poet and essayist who published several works, including "Le Voyage en Amérique" and "La France et l'Amérique". Another prominent figure is Yves Plancade (born 1947), a Canadian composer and musicologist. He has composed numerous works and is a professor emeritus at the Université de Montréal. Lastly, Jean-François Plancade (born 1950) is a French astronomer who is a member of the Institut de mécanique céleste et de calcul des éphémérides in Paris. These notable Plancades have made substantial impacts in their respective fields throughout history.

Genealogical research on the last name Plancade

The Plancade surname originates from France, specifically Normandy, and is believed to have derived from various locales named "Plancais" or "Planques," indicating a clearing surrounded by trees or a flat area enclosed by hedges. The name was first recorded in the 12th century, with the earliest known bearer being Robert de Planques, who lived during the reign of King Louis VI of France (1108-1137). Over time, the surname has been documented in various forms, including Plancades, Plancas, and Planket, due to regional variations and scribal errors. The Plancade family played significant roles in French history, with members serving as knights during the Hundred Years War and as notable figures in Normandy's administrative and judicial systems throughout the Middle Ages. Today, the Plancade name is scattered across France, as well as in other countries where French settlers have migrated, such as Quebec, Canada, and Louisiana, USA.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "plancade"
• 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 : 30 July 2025

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