NomOrigine Background

Last Name Antoon

What is the origin of the last name Antoon?

The last name "Antoon" is of Arabic origin. It is derived from the given name "Anton," which is a variant of the name "Anthony," meaning "priceless" or "praiseworthy." The surname may have originated as a patronymic surname, meaning it was derived from the given name of an ancestor. It is commonly found in Arabic-speaking countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq.

origin of the last name Antoon

Learn more about the origin of the last name Antoon

The meaning and origin of the last name Antoon

The surname Antoon is of Dutch and Flemish origin, derived from the given name Antonius, which itself is a Roman family name that means "priceless" or "invaluable." The name Antonius was commonly used in the Middle Ages in honor of St. Anthony, a 3rd-century Egyptian hermit who was known for his piety and self-discipline. Over time, variations such as Anton, Antoon, and Antoine emerged in different regions of Europe, with Antoon being a common variation in the Dutch-speaking areas. The surname Antoon is believed to have spread to other parts of the world through Dutch colonization and migration, particularly to countries like the United States, where it continues to be used as a family name.

Geographical distribution of the last name Antoon

The surname Antoon is primarily found in the Middle East, particularly in countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq. In Lebanon, Antoon is a common surname among Christian families, with many residing in the region of Mount Lebanon and the capital city of Beirut. In Syria, the name Antoon is also prevalent, particularly among Assyrian and Syrian Orthodox communities. In Iraq, the surname Antoon can be found among the Assyrian and Chaldean Christian populations, with a significant presence in cities like Baghdad and Mosul. Additionally, there are smaller populations of individuals with the last name Antoon scattered throughout the United States, particularly in states with larger Arab and Middle Eastern communities such as Michigan, California, and Texas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Antoon

The last name Antoon has several variations and spellings, including Anton, Antun, Antoun, and Antoni. These variations can be due to different dialects, transliterations, or historical changes over time. The name Antoon is of Arabic origin, deriving from the name Antonius, meaning "priceless" or "inestimable." The surname is commonly found in Lebanon, Syria, and other Middle Eastern countries, as well as among Lebanese and Syrian diaspora communities around the world. Despite the different spellings, all variations of the name Antoon still carry the same meaning and heritage.

Famous people with the last name Antoon

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Antoon is Sinan Antoon, an Iraqi-American poet, novelist, and translator known for his works that explore themes of war, exile, and identity. Another notable figure is Elias Antoon, a Lebanese politician and former Minister of Defense who played a key role in the country's government. In the world of sports, George Antoon, an American professional basketball player known for his skills as a forward, has made a name for himself in the industry. These Antoons have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have garnered recognition for their talents and accomplishments.

Genealogical research on the last name Antoon

The surname Antoon is of Arabic origin, derived from the given name Antonius, which means "priceless" or "invaluable." It is believed to have been brought to Europe by the Crusaders and later spread to different regions, including Italy, Spain, and France. The earliest recorded instances of the Antoon surname date back to the 12th century in Europe. Over time, the name evolved in different spellings, such as Anthony, Antunes, Antoon, and Anton. The Antoon family has a rich genealogical history, with branches of the family tree extending to various countries around the world, particularly in the Middle East and Europe. Today, individuals with the last name Antoon can be found in many different regions, each with their unique stories and ancestral ties.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: