What is the origin of the last name Terrasse?

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Terrasse

The meaning and origin of the last name Terrasse

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Geographical distribution of the last name Terrasse

The surname Terrasse has a predominantly French origin and is most commonly found within France, particularly in regions such as Brittany, Normandy, and Provence. The highest concentration of people with the last name Terrasse can be found in the departments of Loire-Atlantique, Seine-Maritime, and Bouches-du-Rhône. Beyond France, the distribution of this surname is relatively sparse. In Canada, Quebec has a significant number of individuals bearing this name due to French immigration. The United States also hosts a notable population with this last name, primarily in states that have historically attracted French immigrants, such as Louisiana and Wisconsin. Other countries with small populations carrying the Terrasse surname include Belgium, Switzerland, and some former French colonies like Haiti and Algeria.

Variants and spellings of the last name Terrasse

The surname Terrasse can have various spellings and variants, reflecting regional differences and individual preferences in spelling. Some common variations of the name include Terasse, Terras, Terraze, Terrace, Terrassa (Catalan), Terrasa (Italian), Térasse (French), and Terrazza (Italian). The name is primarily associated with French-speaking regions such as France and Quebec, Canada, but it can also be found in other parts of the world where French immigrants have settled. It originates from the Old French word "terras" meaning "land" or "ground," reflecting the occupational origins of many people bearing this name.

Famous people with the last name Terrasse

The Terrasse surname is associated with several notable figures from various fields. In France, Henri-Paul Terrasse (1867-1955) was a mathematician and academician known for his work on the theory of functions of real variable and the Baire category theorem. René Terrasse (1907-2004), also French, was an art historian, museum director, and a key figure in the restoration of the Musée du Louvre. In Canada, Terry Fox (1958-1981) is a national hero for his Marathon of Hope, a cross-country run to raise funds and awareness for cancer research after he lost a leg to the disease. Lastly, in the realm of architecture, Claude-Michel Terrasse (born 1946), a French architect, has been honored with several awards for his sustainable designs. These individuals exemplify the diverse accomplishments of people sharing the Terrasse surname.

Genealogical research on the last name Terrasse

The Terrasse surname is believed to have originated from France, specifically the region of Languedoc-Roussillon. It is a toponymic name, meaning one who lived near a terrace or embankment. Variations in spelling include Terasse, Terase, and others. The earliest recorded instance of the name dates back to the 13th century, with Jean Terrasse appearing in records from Languedoc in 1270. Over the centuries, family members spread throughout France, with significant populations found in regions such as Normandy and Bordeaux. Some families later immigrated to other countries, including Canada, the United States, and Switzerland. The Terrasse family history is rich in artisans, farmers, and military personnel, contributing significantly to their respective communities and maintaining a strong sense of family pride and tradition.

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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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