Bouchard

Patronymic

Meaning

Derived from the Germanic personal name 'Bodehard', meaning 'bold' or 'brave' and 'hardy' or 'strong'.

Etymology

The surname comes from the Old Germanic name 'Bodehard', composed of 'bodo' (bold, messenger) and 'hard' (strong, hardy). It was introduced to France by Norman settlers and became established as a hereditary surname.

About the Bouchard Surname

A French surname with Germanic origins, derived from a personal name meaning 'bold and strong'. The name became prominent in French nobility and was carried to Canada by French settlers.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 35,000 bearers in the United States #652 most common surname
Rare Common

Primarily found in France, Canada, and French-speaking regions.

Bouchard Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Bouchard Surname