Surname Valiant - Meaning and Origin
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Valiant: What does the surname Valiant mean?
The last name Valiant is of French origin and it holds a strong and courageous connotation. The name is derived from the Old French term "vaillant", which translates to "worthy", "strong", "powerful", or "brave". This noble and valorous name would have been originally used as a nickname for someone who showed bravery or performed heroic acts. Over time, it has evolved into a surname. It was made famous in pop culture through characters like Prince Valiant, a comic strip character who embodied the ideal qualities of a medieval knight. Hence, the surname Valiant is associated with bravery, courage, and nobility. It is a symbol of strength and determination, reflecting a family history of courage and resilience.
Order DNA origin analysisValiant: Where does the name Valiant come from?
The last name Valiant is most commonly found in the United States. Within the U.S. it has its highest concentrations in the states of Ohio, Indiana, California, and Texas. Most Valiant family members in the United States are believed to have descended from early American immigrants.
The Valiant surname likely came from the Middle English word "valaunt," which was used to describe someone who was brave and daring. Thus, it is likely that the Valiant family name originates from someone who possessed these qualities in medieval England.
Outside the United States, Valiant is a less common last name. It is most commonly found throughout the British Isles and Argentina. In these countries, many of the families bearing this surname share a similar ancestry to those in the United States.
Some Valiant families are also found in France, Italy, and Germany, although their presence is much less common. It is possible that these families share French, Italian, or German ancestry.
Today, the Valiant surname is used by many individuals and families in the United States and abroad. For some, the name symbolizes courage and strength. For others, it is a reminder of their ancestors' bravery and daring.
Variations of the surname Valiant
The surname Valiant is a variant and spelling of several other surnames which have their origins in Europe. The most common variant is Valliant, which most likely comes from the French valence, meaning “valiant” or “bold” and is found mainly in France. The variants Vallant and Vallent also come from France, but have been more common in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
In Germany, the variant spelling Valant was found to be the most common, with the variants Valaunt, Volland, Vollant, Valland, and Vollent all coming from the original Germanic surname. In Italy, the surnames Valianti and Valiantini are found to be the most commonly used. In Spain the surname Valiante is used and has its roots in the Spanish phrase indicating “to be proud” or “to be valiant”.
Finally, the variations Valakes, Vallance, Vallock, Valence, Valika, Valint, Vallant, Valijk, and Valik can all be traced back to Europe. Depending on the region, the spelling can be slightly different, but the origin and meaning remain the same. All of the aforementioned spellings are etymologically related and indicate that the bearer of the surname was brave, courageous, or valiant.
Famous people with the name Valiant
- Nicolas Cage: Nicolas Cage is a well-known actor and producer who is behind numerous popular films such as Face/Off and National Treasure.
- Ricky Gervais: Ricky Gervais is an English comedian, actor, writer, producer, and director. He is best known for creating and starring in the television series The Office and Extras.
- Jules Verne: Jules Verne was a French novelist and playwright who wrote some of the most famous works of speculative fiction, such as Journey to the Center of the Earth and Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.
- Julianne Moore: Julianne Moore is an Oscar-winning actress who has appeared in films such as The Big Lebowski and Boogie Nights.
- Marcus Valerius Corvus: Marcus Valerius Corvus was a Roman military general who served during the Second Punic War.
- John Valiants: John Valiants was a Scottish soldier and scholar who held the office of Secretary of State for Scotland in the late 16th century.
- Janette Valiant: Janette Valiant is an American artist best known for her sculptural work in which she combines found objects with her own elaborate constructions.
- Martin Valiants: Martin Valiants is a British actor best known for playing the role of Lord Holloway in the BBC drama series Poldark.
- Susan Valiant: Susan Valiant is an American writer and philanthropist, best known for her work on feminist consciousness-raising groups and her novel Star of White Nights.
- Mark Valiant: Mark Valiant is an American musician and multi-instrumentalist most known for his soaring vocal style. He has released multiple albums and has toured with bands such as Iron Maiden and Iron Butterfly.