nellaud

Nellaud is a surname of French origin. It is believed to be a variant of the given name Niel, which itself is derived from the Roman cognomen Nigellus, meaning "dark" or "black." The surname likely originated as a patronymic, indicating descent from someone named Niel.

Historically, the name Nellaud has been found in various regions of France, particularly in the western and northwestern parts. Like many surnames, its prevalence has shifted over time and with migration patterns. Records suggest its presence in areas such as Brittany and Normandy.

The exact etymological path from Niel to Nellaud might involve phonetic changes or regional dialectal adaptations over centuries. While a direct translation or universally accepted meaning beyond its patronymic roots is not readily available, the core association with the given name Niel remains the most consistent interpretation. Individuals bearing the surname Nellaud can be found in France and in countries with historical French immigration.