LOiseau

Loiseau is a surname of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word loiseau, later written as l'oiseau, meaning "the bird." The name likely originated as a nickname for someone associated with birds—such as a hunter, falconer, or bird keeper—or as a toponymic or occupational designation that later became hereditary. In medieval and early modern records, the name appears in several spellings, including L'Oiseau, Le Oiseau, and Loiseau, with the form gradually stabilizing in modern times.

Today, Loiseau is found primarily in France, with additional populations in other Francophone regions and among the French diaspora. It appears in various regions and often retains regional variants in spelling depending on local dialects and clerical practices. The surname is also present in Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, and parts of Africa and the Caribbean where French influence is established.

There are numerous individuals bearing the surname Loiseau, who have contributed across fields such as the arts, sciences, and sports. The name is not tied to a single notable figure, but rather to a broad family lineage with multiple branches.

Variants of the name include L'Oiseau and Le Oiseau, as well as the single-word Loiseau. In some cases, the surname has anglicized forms in migratory contexts.