Bouvier

The surname Bouvier is of French origin, deriving from the word "bouvier," meaning "cowherd" or "ox-driver." The name likely arose as an occupational surname, originally used to identify individuals who worked as cattle herders or drivers.

Origins and Distribution

The Bouvier surname is most commonly found in France and French-speaking regions but has also spread to other countries, including the United Kingdom. In Britain, individuals with the surname Bouvier are often descendants of French immigrants or have ancestors who adopted the surname for other reasons.

Notable Individuals

Though less common in British history compared to French history, the Bouvier surname has been associated with several notable individuals. One of the most famous bearers of the surname is Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, the renowned First Lady of the United States and wife of President John F. Kennedy.

Variants

Variants of the Bouvier surname include Bouvie, Bovier, and Bevier. These variations may reflect regional dialects or spelling modifications that have evolved over time.

In Popular Culture

The surname Bouvier gained further recognition through its association with the fictional characters Patty and Selma Bouvier in the long-running animated series The Simpsons. These characters, who are Marge Simpson's chain-smoking twin sisters, have become well-known in popular culture.

In conclusion, the Bouvier surname carries a rich history and diverse cultural associations, making it a name of interest both in Britain and abroad.

There are approximately 139 people named Bouvier in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Bouvier.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Adrian
  • Christopher
  • George
  • Jean-marc
  • Jm
  • Laurent
  • Michael
  • Nicholas
  • Peter
  • Raymond
  • Scott
  • Yannick

Female

  • Anne
  • Catherine
  • Edna
  • Gaelle
  • Janet
  • Jean
  • Melanie
  • Patricia
  • Stephanie
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.