Surname · French origin
Rousseau
Meaning
The surname Rousseau means Little red-haired one.
Origin
French
Type
descriptive
The origin of the surname Rousseau
Rousseau is a diminutive of roux, “red-haired.”
What kind of surname is Rousseau?
Rousseau is a descriptive surname, originally describing a physical or personal characteristic. It belongs to the French naming tradition — you can read how French surnames were formed on our French last names page.
Other French surnames
Other descriptive surnames
Family names formed the same way, from different cultures.
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Rousseau mean?
The surname Rousseau means Little red-haired one. Rousseau is a diminutive of roux, “red-haired.”
Where does the surname Rousseau come from?
Rousseau is a surname of French origin.
What kind of surname is Rousseau?
Rousseau is a descriptive surname, originally describing a physical or personal characteristic.
What are other French surnames?
Other French surnames include Bernard, Blanc, Dubois, Dumont, Durand, Duval.