Surname Schevalier - Meaning and Origin

Schevalier: What does the surname Schevalier mean?

The last name Schevalier is a French surname derived from the medieval profession of knighthood. The name translates literally to "knight" and is evidence of the prominent importance of the knightly class in medieval European society.

In the Middle Ages, knights were members of the noble warrior class, usually taken from the richest families who acted as mounted warriors and charged with protecting their feudal lords’ lands. They carried heavy metal armour, practiced chivalry, code of conduct, and military tactics, and for their service, they were rewarded generously by becoming feudal lords themselves. The Knights were considered a part of the High Court with strong moral codes and obligations.

The last name Schevalier is therefore a testament to a long standing tradition within European societies. The name can be seen as a reminder of the bravery of knights throughout the ages and a reminder of the legacy of the knightly class. It is also seen as an indication of respect for those who fought for justice, justice which was sometimes a challenge given the feudal system that was present across medieval Europe.

The surname Schevalier is thus a lasting reminder of the importance of knighthood within European culture and the legacy of a proud tradition of warriors who fought for justice. It also speaks to the moral code carried by knights and their respect for honour and tradition.

Schevalier: Where does the name Schevalier come from?

The last name Schevalier is mostly common in northern and western Europe. It is mostly found in France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

In France, the name is especially popular in the region around St. Martin-de-Re and at the mouth of the Charente River. Records show that in medieval time the name Schevalier was popular in regions such as Périgord, Angoumois and Poitou.

In Germany, the surname is quite popular, particularly in the northeast and around Berlin. It was used as a noble name for members of knightly families from Brandenburg, Prussia, Silesia and East-Thuringia.

In Spain, it is most commonly found in the Basque region and Catalonia. Records from the 1400s show this name was popular with the wealthy families of the Basque area.

Finally, it is also found in Belgium and the Netherlands. The name is not as common there, but still does occasionally appear.

Overall, the last name Schevalier is a fairly common name in Europe today, especially in northern and western countries. The surname has an interesting history, having been used by members of medieval knightly families.

Variations of the surname Schevalier

The surname Schevalier is a French name that originated from the Latin word ‘scutum’, meaning shield. It is a noble title meaning ‘knight’ and is typically found in France and northern Europe. The variants, spellings and surnames derived from Schevalier include:

-Schevaler, Schewalter, Chevallier

-Schevaller, Schuvalier

-Chevaler, Chavaler, Chavellier, Chevalier, Chevallier, Chevaly

-Schellheiser, Shavalier

-Schwalm, Schwalt, Schwelm

-Schebler

-Avilier, Vaillant, Vaillier

The Schevalier name is common in France, while the Schevaler variant is often found in Germany. The Chevallier spelling is popular in areas of France as well as parts of The Netherlands, England and Belgium. The Schuvalier version is often found in Austria and Switzerland, while Hungary has more of the Chevaler spelling. The Schebler surname is also thought to be related to Schevalier, and is believed to originate in Bavaria, Germany. Appearing in English-speaking countries, the variations Shavalier and Schwalt can also be found.

In France, the surnames Vaillant and Vaillier evolved from the Schevalier surnames and are associated with France's regions of Picardy and Aunis. While these variations of the Schevalier surname have evolved over time, appearing in different cultures around the world, they all retain the original Latin root and their ancient symbolism.

Famous people with the name Schevalier

• Jean-Baptiste Lully (1632: 1687): French composer and court musician under King Louis XIV.
• Maurice Schevalier (1875: 1964): French actor, singer, dancer, and film star who rose to fame during the 1930s and 1940s.
• Jean-Jacques Schevalier (1901: 2002): French painter, sculptor, and illustrator.
• Alain Schevalier (1935: 1989): French sculptor and ceramist known for his works using clay and bronze.
• Caroline Schevalier (1973: 2014): French fashion designer best known for her feminine and romantic pieces.
• Eric Schevalier (1957: ): French martial artist and personal trainer who pioneered the modern-day discipline of mixed martial arts.
• Sacha Schevalier (2003: ): French singer, songwriter, and musically producer who is best known for his upbeat pop tunes.
• Charles-Henri Schevalier (1915: 2000): French naval officer and diplomat who served in the Second World War.
• Lucas Schevalier (1925: 2020): French furniture designer known for his minimalist, functionalist pieces.
• Etienne Schevalier (1901: 1977): French film director and animator.

Other surnames

Schevalje