Surname Bolard - Meaning and Origin

Bolard: What does the surname Bolard mean?

The last name Bolard is of French origin. It is believed to be a derivative of the given name Boulard, which is likely derived from the Old French boul, meaning “leadership” or “principality.”

The name likely originated in northwestern France, in the area just south of Normandy. Historically, “Boulard” was often a occupational byname or surname deriving from the Old French boul, typically associated with a chief or leader. As the surnames of the French evolved over time, the “Boulard” surname also evolved and developed into several different variations, including Boulard, Boulardot, Boulardet, Bolard, and Bolart.

The surname Bolard was likely used by people who were either leaders or associated with leadership or with those of a high rank in society. It is also likely the name of many members of the nobility or aristocracy in France.

Today, the surname Bolard is still mostly found in France, with some variants making their way into the United States. It is particularly concentrated in the southwestern parts of France, especially the Moselle and Bas-Rhin departments.

The Bolard family have a long and proud tradition of leadership, service, and diligence that they have proudly carried on through successive generations. The Bolard name is a reminder of the high ideals to which many strive to live up to and is a reminder of the importance of living a life of purpose and nobility.

Bolard: Where does the name Bolard come from?

The last name Bolard is of French origin. It derived from a place name, Boulard, found in various regions throughout France. Some say it might have been an occupational name for someone who made or sold 'boules', a type of wooden ball used in a certain sport, similar to Bowling. The surname Bolard is not very common today. However, it is more frequently found in France and perhaps to a lesser degree in countries like Belgium, and the United States where migration from France has been heavy in the past. The surname also exists in a few other European countries due to migration and cultural exchange. Moreover, it might be observed among descendants of French immigrants in Canada. Please note, the distributions in these geographical regions are not significant, it’s relatively quite rare, which is why the name Bolard is not often come across. Hence, further genealogical research would be needed to accurately identify a specific region of prevalence for the surname today.

Variations of the surname Bolard

The surname Bolard has several variant spellings and related surnames derived from the same origin. These variants could be due to regional differences, translation discrepancies, or clerical errors from when surnames were first being documented.

Variant spellings of Bolard include Bollard, Bolard, Bolleard, Boulard, Bullard, Belard, and Boler. Bollar, Boler, Boolard, and Boillard are also possibilities.

The surnames Bullard and Boulard in particular are thought to be closely related to Bolard. These surnames trace back to Old French and are believed to be occupational names for someone who made or sold bowls. They could also possibly be a nickname for someone with a round, rotund appearance.

It is also worth noting that surname prefixes can vary based on location, as well. For example, the surname could appear as De Bolard, Du Bolard, Le Bolard in French-speaking regions.

While there are many possible variants and related surnames, each individual variant could potentially have its own unique history and may not directly correlate with the others. Therefore, genealogical research for a specific lineage may require looking into multiple possibilities.

Famous people with the name Bolard

• Gilles Bölard, Swiss judoka.
• Brian Bölard, former professional baseball player.
• Michael Bölard, French creature animator.
• Joseph Bölard, Swiss former racecar driver.
• Florent Bölard, a French sprint canoer.
• Emile Bölard, Swiss astronomist and medical doctor.
• Joseph-Maurice Bölard, French field hockey player.
• Yannick Boltard, French powerlifter.
• Alexandre Boltard, French playwright.
• Franck Bölard, French professional footballer.
• Susan Boltard, American restaurateur and entrepreneur.
• Didier Bölard, former Swiss professional footballer.
• David Bölard, French sculptor.
• Maurice Bölard, Swiss archaeologist.
• Roger Bölard, French cinematographer.

Other surnames

Bolar