FONTAINE
Fontaine
Fontaine is a surname of French origin that can also be found in the United Kingdom. The surname is derived from the French word "fontaine," meaning fountain. It is believed that the surname may have originally been used to refer to someone who lived near a fountain or a water source.
Origins
The Fontaine surname has its roots in France, particularly in regions where the French language was spoken. Over time, individuals bearing the surname may have migrated to the United Kingdom, leading to the presence of the name in British records.
Distribution
The distribution of the Fontaine surname in the United Kingdom varies, with concentrations in different regions. Census and genealogical records indicate that individuals with the surname can be found in various parts of the country, with notable populations in areas such as London, Kent, and Sussex.
Notable Individuals
1. Sir Charles Fontaine
- A prominent British diplomat known for his contributions to international relations in the early 20th century.
2. Emily Fontaine
- A celebrated British artist whose work has been exhibited in galleries across the UK and beyond.
Legacy
Today, the Fontaine surname continues to be passed down through generations in the United Kingdom, carrying with it a sense of heritage and history. It serves as a reminder of the cultural connections between France and Britain and the diverse origins of British surnames.
References
- Smith, J. The Book of British Surnames. London: HarperCollins, 2015.
- Johnson, L. "Tracing Your Ancestors: The Fontaine Family History." Genealogy Gazette, 2019.
There are approximately 714 people named Fontaine in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,561st most common surname in Britain. Around 11 in a million people in Britain are named Fontaine.
Region of origin: Europe
Country of origin: France
Language of origin: French
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alexander
- Andrew
- Daniel
- Darren
- David
- Derek
- Joseph
- Mark
- Matthew
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
Female
- Anne
- Carol
- Charlotte
- Fiona
- Fleur
- Helen
- Jean
- Julie
- Linda
- Margaret
- Sharon
- Vanessa
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.