Surname Petite - Meaning and Origin
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Petite: What does the surname Petite mean?
The last name Petite is of French origin and it directly translates to "small" or "little" in English. It is often viewed as a nickname-type surname referred to someone of small stature or height. The name could also have been used to distinguish between two people with the same first name, but of different sizes. This naming tradition comes from an era when surnames were used to reflect personal characteristics or physical features. Although, it is a common last name in France, Petite is also found in some other countries due to migration and the influence of French colonial rule. It's also worth noting that the interpretation of the name can vary as languages and cultures evolve over the years.
Order DNA origin analysisPetite: Where does the name Petite come from?
The last name Petite is most commonly found in French-speaking countries across the globe. In France, many families with the last name Petite are found in the Paris region. Other French-speaking regions where the name is frequent include Quebec and some parts of Louisiana, as well as Basque Country, the Channel Islands, the French Caribbean islands and other areas of France’s former colonies.
In the US, the name is most commonly found on the east coast, especially in the northeast region. It is also relatively common in the Midwest and western states. Some notable people with the last name Petite include former NFL player Darren Petite, singer-songwriter Grandma Petite, novelist Leslie Petite, and French-born fashion designer Elise Petite.
The last name Petite is also occasionally encountered in parts of Latin America, such as Peru, Costa Rica, and El Salvador, as well as in some parts of Africa. The presence of the last name in these regions is most likely the result of French colonization in the past.
Overall, the last name Petite is still popular in many countries, with the majority of its bearers living in French-speaking countries or areas with some connection to France’s past colonization.
Variations of the surname Petite
The Petite surname has many variants, spellings, and alternate names depending on geographical and cultural influences. Common variants include Petit, Pettite, Pettit, Petty, and Pettigrew. Countries like France, the United Kingdom, and the United States may see slight variations because of dominant languages and the preference of how names are spelled or pronounced.
In French, the most common spelling is Petit, which can trace its roots back to the year 1130 and Latin "petitone" which means "small, short, or young". This spelling Produced the following variants; Peatte, Peete, Peate, Peete, and Peet. As English replaced French, the spelling of the surname evolved to Pettit and Pettite.
The British spelling for the surname eventually became Petty, which can trace its roots back to the region of Normandy in France (formerly known as Olde England). This spelling gave birth to the following variants: Pettie, Pepper, Pettey, and Pietey. Most of these variants originated in Scotland and northern England.
In the United States, the surname evolved to Pettigrew due to the influx of immigration during the 1600s. This spelling is more common in the southern region of the United States.
Overall, the Petite surname stands out as an enduring and endearing name for many generations. It carries a rich and ever-evolving story of culture, identity, and self-expression than spans centuries.
Famous people with the name Petite
- Vivica A. Fox: Actress and producer known for roles in films such as Independence Day, Two Can Play That Game, Kill Bill, and Why Do Fools Fall in Love.
- Jo Petite: Singer-songwriter and actress best known for her eponymous debut album, Jo Petite.
- Monique Petite: Professional dancer and choreographer best known for appearing on the TV show So You Think You Can Dance.
- Ervin Petite: Business executive and philanthropist best known for his contributions to the local community and charities in Mississauga, Canada.
- David Petite: Professional mixed martial artist and kickboxer who competed in the lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
- Sammy Petite: Professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association for the Seattle SuperSonics and the Vancouver Grizzlies.
- Chris Petite: American rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur from Brooklyn, New York City.
- Prince Philippe Petite: French artist known for his abstract sculptures and installations that often combine metal, wood, and paint.
- Laurie Petite: Professional figure skater who is a two-time World Junior Champion and two-time ESP45 Champion.
- Chelsea Petite: American actress and model who has appeared in films such as The Funhouse Massacre, Wishmaster 3: Beyond the Gates of Hell, and Catacombs.