BOURGEOIS
Bourgeois
Etymology
The surname Bourgeois originates from the French word "bourgeois," which means a member of the middle class. The term was originally used to describe the citizens of French towns and cities during the Middle Ages.
History
The Bourgeois surname likely emerged as a surname when individuals of the middle class began to adopt surnames in the late Middle Ages. It is possible that the name was applied to someone who had come from a bourgeois background or displayed characteristics associated with the middle class, such as wealth or education.
Distribution
The surname Bourgeois is not as common in Britain as it is in France, where it is more prevalent due to its French origins. However, there are still individuals with the Bourgeois surname living in various parts of the United Kingdom.
Famous Individuals
- Lewis Bourgeois (1896-1970): A British industrialist known for his contributions to the textile industry in Manchester.
- Sarah Bourgeois (b. 1980): A British artist renowned for her contemporary sculptures that have been exhibited in galleries across Europe.
- Michael Bourgeois (1935-2015): A British author who wrote extensively on British social history during the Victorian era.
Coat of Arms
The Bourgeois family crest features a shield with symbols representing strength, wisdom, and prosperity. The crest is often displayed with the motto "Virtus in Medio," which translates to "Strength in the Middle" in Latin, reflecting the origins of the surname as a term associated with the middle class.
Legacy
While the Bourgeois surname may not be as widespread in Britain as in France, individuals with this surname have made significant contributions to various fields, including business, art, and literature. The name carries with it a sense of heritage and a connection to the historical development of the middle class in European society.
There are approximately 129 people named Bourgeois in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Bourgeois.
Region of origin: Europe
Country of origin: France
Language of origin: French