LEGRAND
Also recorded as Le Grand
Legrand
Origin and Meaning Legrand is a British surname with French origins. The name is derived from the French words "le" and "grand," meaning "the big" or "the great." It is believed to have been a nickname given to someone who was tall, powerful, or held a prominent social position.
Early Origins The surname Legrand first appeared in Britain during the Norman Conquest of 1066 when William the Conqueror invaded England from Normandy, France. Many Norman nobles and knights who supported William were rewarded with land and titles in England, and their descendants adopted the surname Legrand.
Distribution Over the centuries, the Legrand surname became established in various parts of Britain, particularly in areas with strong Norman influences, such as the south of England and London. Today, individuals with the surname Legrand can be found across the United Kingdom, with notable concentrations in urban areas.
Notable Individuals Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the surname Legrand. These individuals have made significant contributions to various fields, including the arts, sciences, politics, and business. Some notable Legrands include:
- John Legrand: A 19th-century entrepreneur and philanthropist known for his contributions to the textile industry.
- Sarah Legrand: A renowned British artist known for her impressionist paintings depicting English landscapes.
Coat of Arms The Legrand family is associated with a unique coat of arms, which typically features symbols representing strength, nobility, and honour. The design may include elements such as a lion, a shield, or other traditional heraldic motifs.
Modern-Day Legacy In contemporary Britain, the surname Legrand continues to be passed down through generations, linking individuals to their Norman heritage. Many modern Legrands take pride in their ancestral lineage and may participate in genealogical research to uncover their family history.
There are approximately 293 people named Legrand in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Legrand.
Region of origin: Europe
Country of origin: France
Language of origin: French
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Christopher
- David
- Erwan
- Frederick
- Ian
- John
- Julian
- Lee
- Mark
- Nicholas
- Philip
- Thomas
Female
- Carol
- Christine
- Dominique
- Emilie
- Jean
- Mary
- Natasha
- Sophia
- Stephanie
- Zoe