What is the origin of the last name Duvall?
Countries of origin for the last name Duvall
The last name Duvall has a long history and is predominantly found in the United States of America. The name is of French origin and is derived from the Old French word “du val,” meaning “of the valley.” It is classified as a surname derived from a topographic or locational feature, indicating that the original bearers of the name either lived in or were associated with a valley.
Historical records suggest that the Duvall name originated in France and spread to different parts of the world through immigration and migration. Specifically, many Duvalls migrated to the United States in the 17th and 18th centuries, contributing to the growth of the name’s prevalence in the country.
One notable figure associated with the Duvall name is Gabriel Duvall (1752-1844), an American lawyer and jurist. Gabriel Duvall served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1811 to 1836. His prominence in American history adds to the significance of the Duvall name in the legal sphere.
Over time, various spellings and variations of the Duvall surname have emerged. These include Duval, Du Vall, DeVall, Duvallier, Duvalle, and De Valle, among others. These alternative spellings contribute to the complexity and diversity of the name.
The Duvall surname is most prevalent in the southern and eastern regions of the United States, particularly in the states of Louisiana, Virginia, Maryland, and Kentucky. This distribution suggests that the name may have concentrated in areas where French immigration or settlement occurred.
The popularity of the Duvall name has remained relatively stable over the years. While not one of the most common surnames in the United States, it is not uncommon to come across individuals bearing this name.
The meaning of the Duvall surname, “of the valley,” reflects an ancestry connected to a specific geographical feature. This name provides a glimpse into the historical and geographical roots of families who bear it, highlighting their association with valleys and their connection to French heritage.
While the facts presented here provide a comprehensive understanding of the Duvall surname, it is important to note that further research and exploration may uncover additional insights or details. As with any surname, the study of Duvall is an ongoing and intriguing journey into the past.
Interesting facts about the last name Duvall
- The surname Duvall originated in France, specifically in the region of Normandy.
- The name Duvall is derived from the French words “du” meaning “of” or “from” and “val” meaning “valley.”
- The first recorded instance of the Duvall surname can be traced back to the 13th century in the Normandy region of France.
- One of the notable variations of the Duvall surname is “DeVaux,” which is also of French origin and has a similar meaning.
- During the Middle Ages, many individuals with the surname Duvall migrated from France to England.
- In the United States, the Duvall surname is most commonly found in the states of Maryland, Virginia, and Kentucky.
- Several prominent individuals with the surname Duvall have made significant contributions in different fields such as politics, film, and literature.
- The Duvall surname has also been documented in other countries like Canada, Australia, and South Africa, indicating its global reach.
- Throughout history, the Duvall surname has undergone various spellings and pronunciations, including Duval, DuVall, DuVaulle, and Duvol, among others.
- The Duvall surname is relatively rare, making it a distinctive and unique name for those who bear it.
Name Rank
#1811
There are around 19844 people with the last name Duvall in the US