Surname Boulard - Meaning and Origin

Journey through the Boulard Lineage: A DNA Expedition with iGENEA

Delving into the past through DNA analysis unveiled extraordinary aspects of the Boulard lineage. From solidifying Viking roots and unexpected Basque connections to observing the cultural shifts through centuries and understanding the evolution of the surname, this exploration woven by iGENEA was revelatory, reinforcing a deeper sense of identity rooted in a vast human heritage.

E. Boulard

Boulard: What does the surname Boulard mean?

The surname Boulard is of French origin and it is derived from the Old French word "boul," which means "beetle." It was often used as a nickname for someone who was thought to bear a resemblance to a beetle in some way, possibly suggesting a person with a hard outer "shell," or metaphorical armor, symbolizing strength and resilience. It could also indicate a person's occupation if they interacted with beetles in some way, such as a beetle breeder or researcher. Like many surnames, the exact meaning can vary based on regional and historical contexts. Today, it is most commonly found in France.

Boulard: Where does the name Boulard come from?

The last name Boulard is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "boul" which means "beam," "plank," or "trunk" and is often associated with a carpenter. It is essentially an occupational surname that was assigned to people according to their profession. As an extension, it may also refer to a person who is sturdy and robust, paralleling the durability of a block of wood or a beam.

In the present day, this surname is quite common in France, particularly in the northern regions such as Normandy and Hauts-de-France. It is also fairly prevalent in Quebec, Canada due to the historical migration of French people to North America in the 17th and 18th centuries. Some individuals or families bearing this surname may also be found in other Francophone or French-influenced countries, or even dispersed elsewhere around the globe due to the process of global migration. However, its highest concentrations remain in its country of origin, France.

Variations of the surname Boulard

The surname Boulard is of French origin and is derived from the Old French term 'boul', meaning 'barrel'. This was an occupational name for a cooper, a person who made or repaired casks, barrels and vats.

Variants of the surname Boulard include Boullard, Bouillard, Bouhard, Boulart, and Buillard. Simplified spellings might include Boular, Boulrd, or Boulad. It is also possible that the names Bouler, Boulerd, Boler, and Bolerde could be anglicized forms or related to Boulard.

Other surnames that might be of the same origin as Boulard due to similar meaning or profession include cooper, cooperman, barrelmaker.

The spelling of the name can change over time due to a lack of standardized spelling in historical records or due to a family moving to a new country and adapting the spelling and pronunciation to fit the local language.

However, the changes in the surname depend on many factors and might not apply to every family with the Boulard surname. To trace the exact origin and variants of your surname, it might be helpful to research genealogical records, immigration documents, and historical texts.

Famous people with the name Boulard

• Xavier Boulard: Xavier is a famed French painter known for his contributions to the world of visual art. His paintings are in many prestigious collections across the world.
• Claude Boulard: Claude was a notable French politician who served as a member of the French Socialist Party. He was elected as the Mayor of Le Mans, a position he held from 1980 until 2001.
• Don Boulard: He is a former professional hockey player who played for the Hull Olympiques in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League during the mid-1980s.
• Jean-Noël Boulard: Known for his works as a film Director, and Producer in movies like "Paradise Lost" and "Philippe Petit: Man on Wire."
• Pol Boulard: Pol was a professional footballer who played as a striker for various clubs in the French Football League. After his playing career, he moved into coaching.
• Axel Boulard: A recognized French actor known for his roles in productions such as "Art of Crime". Note: The popularity of these individuals may depend on the region or field of interest, as some are acclaimed in specific domains or geographic locations.

Other surnames

BoulangerBoulay