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What Does Laval Mean in French?

Published in French Etymology 1 min read

In French, Laval is primarily a surname that literally translates to "of the valley." It carries a rich etymological history deeply rooted in both French and English linguistic traditions.

Origins and Meaning

The surname "Laval" serves as an alternative spelling of "Duval," both tracing their meaning back to geographical origins. The core meaning, "of the valley," indicates that early bearers of this name likely resided in or were associated with a valley area.

The name's lineage can be traced to the Norman "Devall," which highlights its ties to the historical Norman influence on both English and French language development.

Variant Spellings

Due to centuries of linguistic evolution and regional differences, "Laval" and its related forms have developed several variant spellings. These variations include:

  • Davolls
  • Deavall
  • DeVile
  • Devill
  • Deville
  • Divall
  • Divell
  • Evill

These spellings underscore the interconnectedness of French and English linguistic heritage, particularly through Norman influences.