Do you know the meaning of these Armenian surnames?

Armenian surnames, like those of many cultures, offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of our ancestors and the forces that shaped their identities. Delving into the etymology of these names can feel like uncovering hidden stories, connecting us to a past that stretches back centuries.

A Legacy of Patronymics and -ian/-yan Endings

One of the most recognizable characteristics of Armenian surnames is the prevalence of the suffixes “-ian” or “-yan.” These suffixes, derived from the Old Iranian “-ān,” essentially mean “of” or “belonging to.” They often indicate a patronymic origin, meaning the surname was derived from the father’s given name.

• Example: “Petrosian” signifies “son of Petros” (Peter). Similarly, “Hovhannisian” means “son of Hovhannes” (John).

This practice of using patronymics was widespread, solidifying family lineages and connections.

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Occupations and Trades

Many Armenian surnames reflect the professions or trades practiced by ancestors. These names provide valuable insights into the economic and social structures of past Armenian communities.

• Example: “Demirjian” derives from “demir” (iron) and “ji” (maker), meaning “ironworker” or “smith.” “Voskanian” comes from “voski” (gold), suggesting a goldsmith or jeweler. “Badalian” relates to “badal” (cobbler).

These occupational surnames served as a practical way to identify individuals within their communities.

Geographical Origins

Armenian surnames also frequently point to the geographical origins of families. Place names, villages, and regions often became incorporated into surnames, indicating where an ancestor hailed from.

• Example: “Vanetsi” indicates someone from Van, a historically significant Armenian city. “Kesabyan” could indicate origin from Kesab, a town in Syria with a large Armenian population.

These geographical surnames highlight the dispersion of the Armenian people throughout history.

Ter and Der Prefixes

Armenian surnames with Ter or Der in them, for example Der Bedrosian or Ter Petrosian, mean that an ancestor in the family was a priest. The convention is still in use today, and so the children of a priest named Hagop Sarkisian would have the surname Der Sarkisian or Ter Sarkisian.

Personal Characteristics and Nicknames

Some Armenian surnames arose from personal characteristics, nicknames, or descriptive terms that were passed down through generations.

• Example: “Uzunian” comes from “uzun” (long), likely referring to a tall ancestor. “Keshishian” indicates decent from a priest. “Khachatryan” relates to the cross(Khach), and is often associated with a person who either bore a cross, or was born on the feast of the exaltation of the holy cross.

These surnames offer a glimpse into the physical attributes, personalities, or social roles of our ancestors.

Variations and Linguistic Influences

Armenian surnames have also been influenced by the various languages and cultures that have interacted with the Armenian people over the centuries. This has led to variations in spelling and pronunciation, as well as the adoption of foreign words into surnames.

• Example: The variations between “-ian” and “-yan” often reflect regional differences in pronunciation or spelling.

Preserving the Heritage

Understanding the meaning behind Armenian surnames is not just an academic exercise; it’s a way to connect with our heritage and honor the legacy of our ancestors. By exploring the stories embedded within these names, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich and complex history of the Armenian people.

If you’re curious about your own Armenian surname, research and discussions with older family members can be a rewarding journey of discovery. Many resources, including online databases and genealogical societies, can aid in your search.

Armenian surnames are more than just labels; they are living testaments to our past, carrying the echoes of generations and the stories of our shared heritage.

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