JOURDAN
Jourdan
Jourdan is an English surname of French origin. It is derived from the Old French personal name "Jordan," which itself was ultimately derived from the Hebrew name "Yarden," meaning "descend" or "flow down." The surname Jourdan is most commonly found in the United Kingdom, particularly in areas with historical connections to France.
Origins and Distribution: The surname Jourdan has its roots in the medieval period and would have been introduced to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. The name was likely brought over by Norman settlers from France, where it was a common given name. Over time, the name "Jordan" evolved into the surname Jourdan, as was the case with many personal names in the Middle Ages.
Famous Bearers: Throughout history, there have been several notable bearers of the Jourdan surname. One famous example is Louis Jourdan (1921–2015), a French film and television actor who achieved international acclaim for his performances on both stage and screen.
Variants: Variants of the Jourdan surname include Jordan and Jordaan. These variations can often be found in different regions or as Anglicised versions of the original surname.
In conclusion, the surname Jourdan is a testament to the enduring influence of French culture and language on British society. Its origins in the medieval period and continued presence in the United Kingdom highlight the rich tapestry of ancestry and heritage that characterises the British Isles.
There are approximately 155 people named Jourdan in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Jourdan.
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.