In French, “ne” (pronounced nay) precedes a married woman’s maiden name. It signifies “born” and indicates the family name she was given at birth. For example, if a woman named Marie Dubois marries a man named Jean Martin, she might be referred to as Marie Martin, ne Dubois.
Using “ne” provides clarity and maintains a connection to a woman’s family history. It acknowledges her lineage and original family identity, which can be particularly important in genealogical research or legal documents. Historically, this practice reflects the societal importance placed on family names and lineage, especially for women transitioning into new family structures through marriage. This convention is less common in modern usage, but its continued appearance emphasizes the enduring significance of acknowledging women’s original identities.
