Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Orleans

      Origin

      French

      Meaning

      Golden

      Variations

      Orlando, Oleander, Orlena
      The name Orleans has its origins in the French language and is derived from the word or, which means gold. Combining this with the French suffix -leans gives the name its distinctive meaning of golden. This etymology suggests associations with wealth, prosperity, and preciousness. With a rich historical background, the name Orleans has long been significant in both French and global contexts.

      In history, the name Orleans is closely associated with the French royal family, particularly the House of Valois. Dating back to the 14th century, members of the Valois dynasty adopted the name Orleans as their name, indicating their connection to the city of Orleans in France. Notably, several prominent figures, such as Louis I, Duke of Orleans and his son, Charles, Duke of Orleans, played pivotal roles in French history, particularly during the Hundred Years' War. Moreover, the name Orleans has been tied to significant events, such as the famous Siege of Orleans led by Joan of Arc in the 15th century.

      In modern-day usage, the name Orleans continues to evoke historical charm and resonance. It can still be found as a name among descendants of the French aristocracy, including noble families and members of the French nobility. Additionally, the name's connection to the city of Orleans maintains its relevance in contemporary culture. Orleans is celebrated as an important cultural and historical center in France, known for its architectural beauty and artistic heritage. The name Orleans, therefore, serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance associated with both the French royal dynasty and the city itself.

      Based on our records...

      Smith

      Smith

      This is the most common surname associated with Orleans.
      Mary

      Mary

      This is the most common name of those married to a Orleans.
      James

      James

      This is the most common name for a child of a Orleans.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1896 is when there were the most people born with the first name Orleans.

      Explore the origins of another name.