The noble French surname Rabelais is of
occupational origin, and is derived from the trade or profession pursued by the original bearer of the name. In this instance, the surname Rabelais was applied to one who was engaged in the restoration and reconstruction of buildings and any other repair work, so called from the French "rabelir, abellir" meaning "repairer."
Early Origins of the Rabelais family
The surname Rabelais was first found in the region of
Brittany, in the north of France, where the family held lands and estates for centuries.
Early History of the Rabelais family
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Rabelais research.
Another 137 words (10 lines of text) covering the year 1495 is included under the topic Early Rabelais History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Rabelais Spelling Variations
Spelling variations of this family name include: Rabelais, Raballet, Rabelat, Rabelot, Rablat, Rabellaux, Rabeil, Rabelin, Rabel, Rabalais and many more.
Early Notables of the Rabelais family (pre 1700)
Another 28 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Rabelais Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Migration of the Rabelais family to the New World and Oceana
Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Daniel Rabel who arrived in New York City in 1709; Jean Raballet who arrived in Canada in 1714; Jacob Rabel who settled in Louisiana in 1732 and Christine Rabel who settled in New York City in 1868..