Le Bas (Surname)

Origin: Le Bas is a surname of French origin, derived from the Old French word bas, meaning 'low' or 'short'. The surname likely originally referred to someone who lived in a low-lying area or a place with geographic features such as a valley or depression.

History: The Le Bas surname can be traced back to medieval times in France, particularly in the Normandy region. The name is believed to have been introduced to England after the Norman Conquest of 1066, when many Norman families settled in the country. Over time, the name underwent various phonetic changes, eventually becoming anglicised as Le Bas.

Distribution: The surname Le Bas is relatively rare and is found predominantly in the United Kingdom, particularly in areas with historical connections to Normandy and France. It is most commonly found in regions such as Sussex, Jersey, and Guernsey.

Notable Individuals:

  • James Le Bas (1785-1869): An English geologist and mineralogist known for his work on the geology of the Channel Islands.
  • Philippe Le Bas (1794-1860): A French historian and politician who played a significant role in the French Revolution of 1830.

Variants: Variants of the surname Le Bas include Lebass, Lebasse, and Labas.

Coat of Arms: The Le Bas family crest features traditional heraldic symbols such as a shield, helmet, and mantling. It often includes elements that represent the family's origins and achievements.

There are approximately 152 people named Le Bas in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Le Bas.

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