What is the origin of the last name Thibaut?

The surname Thibaut is of French origin. It derives from the male given name Thibaud, which is a variation of Theodwald. This Germanic name means "people's ruler" or "rich in people". The name Thibaut (or Teobaldo in Italian and Teodor in some Slavic languages) has been used in France since medieval times and was introduced to England by the Normans in the 11th century.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Thibaut

The meaning and origin of the last name Thibaut

The surname Thibaut originates from France and is an occupational name derived from the medieval French term 'Thibaud', which means 'people who do battle'. The name was primarily used for individuals involved in warfare, either as warriors or administrators during feudal times. It is a variant of the more common surname Thibodeau, which emerged in the 13th century and is still widespread across France and its territories. Over time, families bearing the name Thibaut migrated to other parts of Europe, North America, and even the New World, where they adopted the local language and spelling variations. Today, the surname Thibaut can be found among populations in several countries around the world, each with their unique cultural history and heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Thibaut

The surname Thibaut has a predominant concentration in French-speaking regions, particularly in France and Belgium. A significant number of Thibaut family descendants can be found in various provinces across Belgium, such as Hainaut, Brabant Wallon, and Namur. In France, it is most common in the eastern regions including Lorraine, Champagne-Ardenne, and Franche-Comté. The name has also spread to some extent through French emigration, with notable Thibaut families living in countries like Canada, the United States, and Switzerland. Additionally, there are smaller populations of people bearing the surname Thibaut in other parts of Europe, such as Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, due to historical migrations or assimilation.

Variants and spellings of the last name Thibaut

The surname Thibaut has several variants and spellings across different regions and time periods. Some common variations include: Tihbaut, Thiebaut, Thibaud, Thibodeau, Thibodeaux, Thibeault, and Tibbott. These variations may originate from regional dialects or slight differences in transcription over time. The name is of French origin, derived from the Germanic personal name Theobald, which consists of the elements "theo-" (God) and "bold" (brave or bold). It gained popularity during the Middle Ages and was brought to various parts of Europe by Crusaders. In English-speaking regions, it is often anglicized as Thibaut.

Famous people with the last name Thibaut

Thibaut is a notable French surname, primarily associated with individuals of renown in various fields. One of the most celebrated figures with this name is Thibaut Pinot, a professional road racing cyclist. He has won several prestigious races, including three stages in the Tour de France and a victory at the Critérium du Dauphiné. In addition, Thibaut Vaughan-Lee, born to French father and American mother, is a successful businessman and reality TV personality, best known for appearing on Bravo's The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills with his mother, Kyle Richards. Another significant figure is Thibaut Courtois, a professional footballer who currently plays as the goalkeeper for Real Madrid and the Belgian national team. His exceptional skills have led him to win multiple titles, including two Premier League trophies and the UEFA Champions League.

Genealogical research on the last name Thibaut

The surname Thibaut is of French origin and is derived from the given name Theobald, which means "people's brave" or "brave people". Historically, the name was predominantly found in Normandy and other regions of France. One of the earliest recorded bearers of the name was Theobald I (c. 978 – 1004), who served as Count of Blois, Chartres, and Châteaudun from 995 until his death. Over time, Thibaut has been anglicized to Theobald or Thoby in English-speaking countries. Notable individuals bearing the name include Thibaut de Barneville (1743-1805), a French general during the American Revolution; and Thibaut V (1201-1253), Count of Champagne and King of Jerusalem. In modern times, the surname can be found worldwide due to historical migrations, with concentrations in France, Belgium, Canada, the United States, and various countries in Africa.

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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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