What is the origin of the last name Voumard?

The surname Voumard is of Swiss origin, specifically from the Canton of Fribourg. It is derived from various place names in this region that contain the element "Vum-" or "Wum-", which means "forest" or "wood". Examples of such places include Vumsiedern and Würenlos. Over time, these place names evolved into surnames as people began to migrate and settle in different areas.
Want to turn this name into a keepsake? Give a star certificate in their name.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Voumard

The meaning and origin of the last name Voumard

The surname Voumard is of French origin, specifically from the Swiss canton of Fribourg, where it is most prevalent. The name is thought to have been derived from various places or geographical features that bore this name in the region during medieval times. One possible origin could be from a small village called Vuomens, located near Fribourg. Another theory suggests that the surname might have developed from the old French term "voie" meaning road or way, and "march" denoting boundary or border, combined to form "Voumarch" which later evolved into Voumard over time. This surname, like many others in France, was primarily occupied by Roman Catholic families, reflecting the religious and cultural landscape of medieval Fribourg.

Geographical distribution of the last name Voumard

The surname Voumard is primarily concentrated in Switzerland, specifically in the French-speaking part of the country known as Romandy. It originates from the canton of Fribourg, where it is most prevalent. However, there are also significant numbers of individuals with this last name in neighboring cantons such as Vaud and Neuchâtel. The surname Voumard has also spread to other countries due to Swiss migration, particularly France and Canada, specifically the province of Quebec where French-speaking immigrants have settled. There have been records of the family originating from Fribourg migrating to the United States as well, but the frequency is much lower compared to Switzerland and its neighboring countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Voumard

The surname Voumard can have various spellings and variations due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common variants include Voumart, Vomerd, Voumarteau, Voumeron, Voumat, Voumaud, Voumault, Voumarteaux, Voumeroux, and Voumardet. These variations may have originated from regional dialects, errors in transcribing names, or changes in the family's place of residence over time. It is important to note that these variations do not necessarily indicate different families but are rather a result of phonetic changes in spelling due to historical and linguistic factors.

Famous people with the last name Voumard

Notable individuals sharing the surname Voumard include:

1. **Alphonse Voumard** (1844-1923), a Swiss watchmaker who co-founded the Le Locle Watchmaking School. His contributions significantly influenced the watchmaking industry in Switzerland.

2. **Boris Voumard** (born 1976), a Swiss ice hockey defenseman who played for teams such as HC Lugano and SC Rapperswil-Jona Lakers in the National League A of Switzerland. He also represented Switzerland at various international competitions.

3. **Maurice Voumard** (1892-1974), a Swiss painter and illustrator known for his works in the Art Nouveau style. His art was featured in various publications, including books and magazines.

While these individuals are notable figures with the surname Voumard, it's essential to mention that there might be other significant individuals sharing this name who have made contributions in diverse fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Voumard

The surname Voumard originates from Switzerland and is primarily found in the French-speaking regions of the country, particularly in the canton of Vaud. The name is believed to be derived from a place name, likely Vomat or Vuomat in the Canton of Bern. The first recorded instance of the surname dates back to the 13th century with the mention of Johannes de Vumat in a document from 1275. Over the centuries, the name has various spellings including Voumard, Voumard, and Vuomard due to differences in transcription and translation. Notable individuals bearing the name include François Vouga-Voumard, a Swiss politician, and artist Charles Henri Jean Vouga, also from Switzerland. The Voumard family history is rich in traditions of art, politics, and local community involvement.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

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.

Last updated :

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names