Last Name Segard

Learn more about the origin of the last name Segard

The meaning and origin of the last name Segard

The surname Segard is of French origin, stemming from the Old French word "Segarde," which is derived from the Visigothic personal name "Sagarus." The Visigoths were a Germanic people who inhabited much of modern-day Romania and Hungary during the Migration Period, eventually settling in Gaul (modern France) during the 5th century. The name Sagarus is believed to have meant 'victorious spear' or 'spear-ruler,' reflecting the martial culture of the Visigoths. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different regions, variations of the surname Segard emerged, such as Segardet, Segardeau, and Segardie. Today, the Segard surname is found primarily in France, but also in other countries with significant French-speaking populations, such as Canada and Belgium.

Geographical distribution of the last name Segard

The surname Segard is predominantly found in France, particularly in the regions of Aquitaine, Limousin, and Poitou-Charentes, which are historically part of the former province of Guyenne. A significant number of people with this last name also reside in the regions of Burgundy, Auvergne, and Brittany. Additionally, small populations can be found in other French-speaking countries like Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada, especially in Quebec. Outside Europe, there are Segard families in South America, primarily in Argentina and Brazil, due to historical migration from France.

Variants and spellings of the last name Segard

The surname Segard may have various spellings and variations due to differences in regional pronunciation and transcription. Some common spelling variations include Seger, Segear, Segare, Segar, Ségard, Segars, Segers, and Segarz. These modifications are primarily the result of factors such as transliteration from other languages, assimilation with neighboring names, and historical recording errors. The original etymology is likely French, derived from the Old French "segier," meaning "woodcutter" or "feller." Regardless of spelling, all variations share a common ancestry and can be traced back to the same linguistic root.

Famous people with the last name Segard

Notable individuals with the surname Segard include:

1. Louis Segond (1873-1952), a Swiss geologist and mountaineer who is credited for naming several mountains in the Alps. He was instrumental in defining the Geological Map of Switzerland, for which he received numerous awards.

2. Philippe Segard (born 1961), a French circus artist, juggler, and director. He is best known as the founder and artistic director of the Cirkus Cirkör in Sweden, a contemporary circus company that combines physical skills with narrative storytelling.

3. Michel Segard (born 1952), a French lawyer who served as Secretary General of the United Nations Conference on Struggle Against Apartheid from 1976 to 1980. He was also an advisor to several heads of state, including Nelson Mandela and Fidel Castro.

4. Marie-Claire Segard (born 1954), a French ethnomusicologist who has conducted extensive research on music and culture in South America, particularly Brazil and Colombia. She is currently a professor at the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis.

These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, reflecting the diverse talents and accomplishments within the Segard family name.

Genealogical research on the last name Segard

The surname Segard is of French origin, derived from the Old French "segier" meaning "woodcutter." The earliest recorded bearers of this name can be traced back to the 12th century in Normandy and the surrounding regions. One prominent family branch includes the Segards of Saint-Germain-de-Vienne, who were seigneurs (lords) of the area during the Middle Ages. Over time, the Segard family expanded throughout France and migrated to other European countries, including Spain, where they are known as Segarra or de Segarra. The name also reached North America with the French colonization of Canada and later the United States, particularly in Louisiana and the southern states. Today, the Segard family is found in various parts of the world, preserving their historical roots while adapting to modern times.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Segard"
• 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 : 12 June 2025