Surname Rousseau - Meaning and Origin

An Emotive Journey into Family History with iGENea DNA Test

Undertaking the iGENea DNA Test was a path towards self-discovery, an emotional roller-coaster full of anticipation and surprises. The test results triggered a deepened sense of connection to the family’s illustrious past, and an enhanced pride in the family name Rousseau.

F. Rousseau

Rousseau: What does the surname Rousseau mean?

The surname Rousseau is of French origin and is derived from the Old French term "rous," meaning red. It was likely used as a nickname initially, typically given to someone with red hair or a ruddy complexion. Over time, it evolved to become a family name. The Rousseau surname is quite popular in France and can also be found in different variations across various countries. It has been the name of some notable people in history, including the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the painter Henri Rousseau. Like many other surnames, different families with this last name are not necessarily related.

Rousseau: Where does the name Rousseau come from?

The last name Rousseau is most commonly found in France and French-speaking countries such as Canada and Belgium. It is also relatively common in the United States, particularly in Louisiana and New England. The name originated in France and means 'red-headed' in French, likely a reference to the person's hair color or physical appearance.

In France, the number of people with the Rousseau surname is not particularly high, but the surname is fairly geographically widespread across the country. As a result, it can be found in towns and cities of all sizes, from the largest urban areas to the most rural villages.

In the United States, the last name Rousseau is much more widespread and is thought to be disproportionately common in Bienville and Ouachita parishes in North Central Louisiana. In Louisiana, the surname is particularly associated with French Creole culture, so many people with this surname are likely descended from French settlers who moved to the bayou in the 1700s.

In Canada, Rousseau is a fairly common name in the Province of Quebec, where more than 16,000 people currently bear this name. The highest concentrations of Rousseau in Canada can be found in Montreal and Quebec City.

Overall, the surname Rousseau is most commonly found in France, Canada, Belgium, and the United States. Though it is not particularly common in any one location, it is still a widely recognized name.

Variations of the surname Rousseau

The surname Rousseau is a French and Swiss surname that is derived from the personal name Roussel, meaning “little red one”.This surname is widely used across the world and has taken on a variety of forms.

The common variants of Rousseau include Rousseaux, Roussell, Rousset, Rousel, and Rousselet. In some areas of Europe, it is also spelled Ross, Rosso, Russo, Rossi, or Roussillon. In Switzerland, the spelling Roux can also be encountered.

Rousseau is also used as a patronymic surname, meaning those who bear this name can be of the same family name as their father or mother. Some common patronymic variants include Roussillon, Rouselle, Roussely, and Rousseaux.

Anthroponymic surnames, are those which are derived from a nick name or given name unique to the area. Common anthroponymic derivatives include Raso, Rousseauil, Rossa, and Roussewaal. Less common variants also exist such as Roussif, Roussillou, Roussillon, Rossière, and Rosson.

Finally, variants can exist due to pronunciation of the origin surname and spelling errors that arise during the immigration process. These include Rouslow, Rouzell, Rossel, Roussu, Roussall, and Rouzeau.

In total, the surname Rousseau has taken on at least 42 unique spelling variations, which all derive from the original personal name.

Famous people with the name Rousseau

• Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778): Swiss-born French philosopher, writer, and political theorist. Often known as the founder of modern social contract theory.
• Hippolyte Rousseau (1825-1910): French landscape painter.
• Pierre-Joseph Proudhon (1809-1865): French philosopher and anarchist.
• Émile-Auguste Chartier (1868-1951): French philosopher.
• Henri Rousseau (1844-1910): French post-Impressionist painter, best known for his naive style.
• Théodore Rousseau (1812-1867): French painter in the Barbizon school.
• Louise Rousseau (1893-1962): French-Canadian stage actress.
• Émile Rousseau (1818-1900): French painter in the Barbizon art movement.
• Paul Rousseau (1850-1926): Canadian-born American poet and playwright. 10.Monique Rousseau (1964-present): Canadian television executive and producer.

Other surnames

RousseRoussel