What does the surname Petit mean?

The surname Petit means "Small or little, from Old French 'petit'.". It is of French origin.

How common is the Petit surname?

There are approximately 145,000 people with the surname Petit in the United States.

Are there Petit soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 172 soldiers with the Petit surname appear in Civil War records.

Petit

Descriptive

Meaning

Small or little, from Old French 'petit'.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French 'petit' meaning small or little, used as a descriptive nickname. The surname originated for someone of small stature or as a diminutive designation.

About the Petit Surname

A descriptive surname indicating someone of small stature or size. It has been used as a hereditary surname in France since at least the medieval period.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 145,000 bearers in the United States #318 most common surname

Rare Common

One of the most common surnames in France, distributed throughout the country.

Petit Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

Origin: French
Classification: Descriptive
Estimated Bearers: 145,000

War Records

172 soldiers with the Petit surname found in Civil War records.

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