Surname Patou - Meaning and Origin

Patou: What does the surname Patou mean?

The surname Patou is French in origin, and while it doesn’t have a specific meaning in French, it is generally associated with nobility and status. Derived from the Old French word "Pas", which means "to step", it may have originated as a nickname for someone with a distinctive walk or gait. The name Patou is primarily found in region of Occitania, southern France. It gained international recognition through Jean Patou, a renowned French fashion designer and founder of the Jean Patou brand. However, the exact meaning of the surname could vary based on regional dialects and family history.

Patou: Where does the name Patou come from?

The surname Patou is of French origin. It evolved from a nickname type of surname for a person who resided near a physical feature such as a hill, stream, church, or type of tree. Patou is derived from the Old French word "patte", meaning "paw". It is likely that the original bearer of the surname had a peculiarity concerning his feet or legs that led to this nickname.

As with many Old French surnames that date back to the Middle Ages, Patou also refers to the occupation of the original bearer. It was often used for a person who worked as a wool carder, stemming from the word "patteur," which in Middle French, was a wool carder.

The name Patou is particularly associated with the famous French fashion designer, Jean Patou, who was known for being an influential designer in the early 20th century.

Today, the surname Patou can still be found in France, though it has spread to various parts of the world due to migration and diaspora. The presence of the name outside France is often a reflection of French influence or ancestry.

Variations of the surname Patou

The surname Patou has a unique French origin. Variations of the surname may differ slightly based on the region and colloquial adaptations. Contributing to the variations are factors such as immigration, regional dialects, phonetic spelling, or a desire to assimilate more fully into host cultures.

Alternate spellings include Pateau, Patot, Pato, Potou, and Patoux.

Compounding surname varieties, particularly in French culture, may include de Patou, le Patou, or du Patou, each with its nuanced implication of heritage, geography, or ranking.

Apparently mutated versions of the name Patou may be Paton, Patton, or Patin, which are common in English-speaking societies.

The surname Patou could be connected to the Basque surname Pato, but evidence is uncertain due to the persnickety nature of Basque language in its relation to other languages.

These are premier examples and not an exhaustive list due to the evolutionary nature of surnames and the discretion of bearer families. However, these options represent the primary spellings and variants associated with the surname Patou.

Ultimately, genealogical and local historical research would provide the most accurate and personalized understanding of surname origin and variance.

Famous people with the name Patou

• Jean Patou: a French fashion designer known for his haute couture and ready-to-wear clothing.
• Roelof Patou: a Dutch sculptor and jewelry designer.
• André Patou: a Belgian Olympic hurdler.
• Noémie Patou: a French pole vaulter and Olympic athlete.
• Emmanuelle Patou: a French rower and Olympian.
• Pierre Patou: a French swimmer and Olympic bronze medalist.
• Carole Patou: a French long-distance runner.
• Robert Patou: a French sprinter.
• Ingrid Patou: a Belgian field hockey player and Olympian.
• Xavier Patou: a French hockey player and Olympian.
• Madeleine Patou: a French alpine skier and Olympic medalist.
• Jacques Patou: a French athlete and rower.
• Michel Patou: a French judoka and Olympic medalist.
• Olivier Patou: a Belgian bobsledder and Olympian.
• Sébastien Patou: a French cyclist and Olympic athlete.
• Nathalie Patou: a French trampolinist.
• Philippe Patou: a Belgian cyclist and Olympic athlete.
• Lynda Patou: a French athlete and hurdles specialist.
• Romain Patou: a French professional tennis player.
• Mélanie Patou: an Italianin cyclist and Olympic athlete.

Other surnames

PatonPatout