Chevalier Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Chevalier come from? What does the surname Chevalier mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Chevalier and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Chevalier Origin: What does the last name Chevalier mean?
The surname Chevalier is of French origin and can be traced back to the early 15th century in France. Derived from the French word for "knight," Chevalier was both a surname and a title, denoting a person of noble rank or a skilled horseman. Over the centuries, the Chevalier surname spread to Canada, the United States, and other countries, becoming prominent in various regions globally.
According to YourRoots data, the Chevalier surname has a significant presence in Canada, the United States, and beyond by the 20th century. This surname's history reflects a lineage of individuals associated with nobility, military prowess, or skilled horsemanship, showcasing a rich heritage that continues to resonate in modern times.
Chevalier Last Name History: Where did the last name Chevalier come from?
Origin of Chevalier Surname: Where does the last name Chevalier originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Chevalier first appeared in records from France around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Chevalier spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Chevalier: What does the Chevalier surname history look like in the early days?
The Chevalier surname started growing significantly in France from the 15th to the 17th centuries, with notable frequencies in Canada during the 18th century. YourRoots data also shows Chevalier family records in the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Chevalier surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Chevalier surname grew significantly in Canada, the United States, and other countries. The Chevalier surname remains prominent in Canada, the United States, and various other regions around the world.
Explore Chevalier last name heritage and Chevalier surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Chevalier Surame?
Maurice Chevalier
Maurice Auguste Chevalier (Sep 12, 1888 – Jan 1, 1972) was a French singer, actor, and entertainer known for his signature songs like "Thank Heaven for Little Girls" and films like The Love Parade. He made a name for himself in musical comedy before transitioning to Hollywood in the late 1920s. Chevalier was nominated for an Academy Award and starred in classics like Gigi and Love in the Afternoon. His career spanned decades, with his final contribution being the title song for the Disney film The Aristocats. Despite his success, he faced personal struggles, including addiction and a suicide attempt. Chevalier left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Haakon Chevalier
Haakon Maurice Chevalier (September 10, 1901 – July 4, 1985) was an American writer, translator, and professor of French literature at the University of California, Berkeley. Known for his friendship with physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, Chevalier's involvement in Soviet intelligence recruitment led to Oppenheimer's security clearance revocation in 1954. Chevalier's diverse works include translations for the Nuremberg Trials and books like "The Last Voyage of the Schooner Rosamond." His life journey from the last days of sail to the Nuremberg Trials and later exile in France showcases a unique blend of literature, history, and political intrigue.
Lucas Chevalier
Lucas Eugène Chevalier (born 6 Nov 2001) is a French professional footballer known for his impressive skills as a goalkeeper for Lille in Ligue 1. Starting off as a third-choice player, he proved his talent with standout performances, earning praise and high ratings from media outlets. With a contract extension until 2027, Chevalier continues to shine, making memorable saves and contributing to his team's victories in major competitions like the UEFA Champions League. His journey from a youth academy graduate to a national team call-up showcases his dedication and passion for the sport, solidifying his place as a rising star in the football world.
Marcel Chevalier
Marcel Chevalier (28 Feb 1921 – 8 Oct 2008) was the last chief executioner in France, known for his role in carrying out the final two guillotine executions in the country. He succeeded his wife's uncle in 1976 and executed only two individuals before capital punishment was abolished. Despite his somber profession, Chevalier later worked as a printer and chose to remain silent about his experiences with the guillotine. His story sheds light on a dark aspect of French history that came to an end during his tenure as Monsieur de Paris.
Tracy Chevalier
Tracy Rose Chevalier (born Oct 19, 1962) is a renowned American-British novelist famous for her novel "Girl with a Pearl Earring," later adapted into a film. She has received numerous awards for her works and is known for incorporating historical figures into her novels. Chevalier's storytelling prowess has captivated readers worldwide, making her a prominent figure in the literary world.
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