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Last Name Poulin

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What is the origin of the last name Poulin?

The surname Poulin is of French origin. It comes from the Old French "poul" meaning "young cock," and was often used as a metonymic occupational name for a poultry farmer or a nickname for a lively or strutting man. In some cases, it could also be a variant of the French name Pulain, which means "little pool." The name has been carried by French settlers to various parts of the world, including Canada and the United States.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Poulin

The meaning and origin of the last name Poulin

The surname Poulin originates from France, specifically from the regions of Normandy and Brittany. It is an occupational name derived from the Old French word "poul(e)n" meaning 'peasant' or 'countryman'. The name was often given to individuals who worked as peasants on manors or farms. The name spread to other countries through migration, notably to Canada, where it became common among French-speaking settlers, particularly in Quebec. In Quebec, the surname Poulin is one of the most frequent, ranking among the top 10 most common last names. It is pronounced as 'poo-lan'.

Geographical distribution of the last name Poulin

The surname Poulin is primarily distributed across French-speaking regions due to its origins from Old French, where it means "young bull." It is most prevalent in Quebec, Canada, reflecting the province's strong French influence. In the United States, a significant number of people with this last name reside in New England states, particularly Vermont and Maine, as well as Louisiana, due to historical migrations from Quebec. Poulin is also found in France, specifically in regions like Normandy, Brittany, and Franche-Comté, where the name has a similar origin. Additionally, small populations with this surname can be traced in countries colonized by the French, such as Haiti and Senegal.

Variants and spellings of the last name Poulin

The surname Poulin has various spelling variants, mainly due to differences in regional pronunciation and transcription over time. Some common variations include: Poulain, Poitin, Poileau, Poleyn, Poulan, Poulen, Pulin, Poulean, Poullen, Poulene, Pouligny, and Poulinot. These variations can be found in France, Quebec, and other places with French-speaking populations. Additionally, Anglicized versions of the name include Pollen and Poolin. It's important to note that these variants may have slightly different origins or meanings, but they all share a common root. The original form of the name is thought to derive from the Occitan word "pòl," meaning "miller."

Famous people with the last name Poulin

Notable individuals with the surname Poulin include:

1. Maurice Richard (The Rocket), a Canadian ice hockey player who is considered one of the greatest to have ever played the game, and was the first player to score 500 career goals in the National Hockey League (NHL).

2. Anne-Marie Poulin, a French actress known for her roles in films such as "The Girl with the Pearl Earring" and "Brotherhood of the Wolf."

3. Rémi Poulin, a Canadian politician who served as a Member of Parliament for the Liberal Party of Canada.

4. Pierre Poulin, a Canadian artist and sculptor known for his abstract works in various media.

5. Michel Poulin, a Canadian writer and poet, winner of the Governor General's Award for French-language literature.

6. Geneviève Pouliot, a Canadian actress, best known for her roles in television series such as "La Galère" and "Les Invincibles."

These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, leaving lasting impacts on their industries and their countries.

Genealogical research on the last name Poulin

The surname Poulin originates from France and is derived from the Old French "poulain," meaning foal or colt. It was originally a nickname for someone with the appearance of a young horse, or perhaps for someone who had worked with horses.

The Poulin family has a significant history in Quebec, Canada, due to the early colonization by the French. Many Poulin immigrants arrived in New France in the 17th and 18th centuries. Notable members of the Poulin family in Quebec include Pierre Poulain, who was a settler in Quebec City in 1643, and Noël Poulin, a farmer and soldier who fought in the Battle of Sainte-Foy in 1760.

The surname also has a presence in other French-speaking regions such as Belgium and Switzerland. Variations of the name include Poulain, Polin, Pullet, Pullen, and Pollan. Genealogical research suggests that many Poulin families have maintained their surnames over multiple generations, with branches spreading across North America, Europe, and beyond.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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.

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