Petit Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Petit come from? What does the surname Petit mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Petit and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Petit Origin: What does the last name Petit mean?
The surname Petit is of French origin and translates to "small" or "little" in English. It first appeared in records in England in the early 12th century and remained closely associated with England until the 15th century. The surname saw significant growth in France and Canada from the 15th to the 18th century, with YourRoots data indicating the presence of Petit family records in the United States as well. By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Petit surname grew significantly in France, Canada, and the United States, showcasing its global spread over the centuries.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence and growth of the Petit surname in various countries, highlighting its prominence in France, Canada, and the United States. The surname Petit remains widely recognized and prevalent in these regions, with records indicating its spread to many countries around the world. This rich heritage of the Petit surname reflects its historical significance and continued presence in diverse regions and cultures today.
Petit Last Name History: Where did the last name Petit come from?
Origin of Petit Surname: Where does the last name Petit originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Petit first appeared in records from England around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Petit spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Petit: What does the Petit surname history look like in the early days?
The Petit surname remained closely associated with England from the 12th to the 15th century and saw significant growth in France and Canada from the 15th to the 18th century. YourRoots data also shows Petit family records in the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Petit surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Petit surname grew significantly in France, Canada, and the United States. The Petit surname remains prominent in these regions and appears in many countries around the world.
Explore Petit last name heritage and Petit surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Petit Surame?
Philippe Petit
Philippe Petit (August 13, 1949) is a French highwire artist known for his daring highwire walks between iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. His unauthorized stunts captured the world's attention and inspired awe. Petit's life story has been immortalized in documentaries, books, and films, showcasing his passion for pushing boundaries and defying gravity. His legacy as a fearless performer continues to captivate audiences around the globe.
Emmanuel Petit
Emmanuel Laurent Petit (September 22, 1970) is a retired French professional footballer known for his defensive skills and midfield prowess. Petit played for renowned clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona, Monaco, and Chelsea, winning domestic league titles and the prestigious FIFA World Cup in 1998 with the French national team. His partnership with Patrick Vieira at Arsenal brought success, including a double win in his first season. Petit's career spanned from the late 1980s to the mid-2000s, showcasing his talents on both the domestic and international stage. A true legend in the world of football, Petit's contributions continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
Dinshaw Maneckji Petit
Dinshaw Maneckji Petit (30 Jun 1823 – 5 May 1901) was an Indian industrialist and philanthropist known for founding the first textile mills in India. He was a member of the Petit family and became the first Petit baronet. Petit dedicated his wealth to charitable endeavors, including establishing funds and hospitals, and was knighted by the British Crown for his contributions. His legacy lives on through his descendants, including notable figures in Indian independence and industry. Petit's impact on philanthropy and industry in India solidified his place in history as a key figure in the country's development.
Yusmeiro Petit
Yusmeiro Alberto Petit (Nov 22, 1984 - ) is a Venezuelan former professional baseball pitcher known for setting a Major League record by retiring 46 consecutive batters in 2014. He played for various MLB teams like the Florida Marlins, San Francisco Giants, and Washington Nationals. Petit made his mark in the sport early, competing in the 1994 Little League World Series as a member of the championship-winning Coquivacoa Little League team. With a right-handed throwing style, he has left a lasting legacy in the world of baseball.
Roland Petit
Roland Petit (13 Jan 1924 – 10 Jul 2011) was a French ballet legend known for his innovative choreography and direction. Trained at the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet school, he founded multiple ballet companies and collaborated with famous artists like Yves Saint-Laurent and Serge Gainsbourg. His work, including "Le jeune homme et la mort" and "Carmen," showcased his modern and abstract style. Petit's legacy lives on through over 50 ballets and the Ballet National de Marseille, which he directed for 26 years. His memoir "J'ai dansé sur les flots" gives a glimpse into his remarkable life. Petit's contributions to the dance world earned him the Prix Benois de la Danse in 1994.
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