What is the origin of the last name Dekirmendjian?
The surname Dekirmendjian is of Armenian origin. It derives from the Armenian word "dekirmenj" which means "millstone maker". This surname likely originated from a specific occupation or location associated with millstones in historical Armenia.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Dekirmendjian
The surname Dekirmendjian is of Armenian origin, derived from the Ottoman Turkish term "deyrmenci," meaning "blacksmith." This name was likely given to members of an Armenian blacksmith family or clan. Over time, it has been anglicized and appears in various spellings, such as Dikranian, Tirmanjian, and Derghermendjian. The surname Dekirmendjian is most commonly found among the Armenian diaspora, particularly in countries with significant Armenian populations like the United States, France, and Lebanon. The name's roots can be traced back to historical Armenia, where various clans and professions were an essential part of society and often formed the basis for surnames.
Geographical distribution of the last name Dekirmendjian
The surname Dekirmendjian is predominantly found within the Armenian diaspora, particularly in regions with significant historical Armenian populations or communities established due to migration. Notably, a substantial number of people bearing this last name can be found in the United States, primarily concentrated in California, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, due to immigration from Ottoman Empire-controlled territories (present-day Turkey) during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Smaller populations can also be found in Canada, France, Russia, and various Middle Eastern countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Iran, reflecting historical migrations and displacements experienced by Armenians over time.
Variants and spellings of the last name Dekirmendjian
The surname Dekirmendjian has several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration and transcription over time. Some of these include Dekermendjian, Dekeremendjian, Dikirmendjian, Dergermendjian, Derkermanjian, Dikirmenjian, and Terzian (a common Armenian variant). These variations may originate from different regions where the family name was adopted or due to the individual's personal preference in spelling. The name is of Armenian origin and is typically found among diaspora communities descended from people originally from the Ottoman Empire.
Famous people with the last name Dekirmendjian
Notable individuals with the surname Dekirmendjian include:
1. Berge Avedis Dekermendjian (born 1938), an Armenian-American architect and artist known for his modernist designs. He was awarded the American Institute of Architects' Gold Medal in 2010.
2. Haig P. Dekermendjian (1934–2016), an Armenian-American businessman, philanthropist, and chairman emeritus of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America. He was instrumental in the construction of numerous churches and schools throughout the United States.
3. Talar Dekermendjian (born 1978), an Armenian-American actress who has appeared in various films and television shows, including "The Good Wife," "Blue Bloods," and "Unforgettable." She is also a voice artist, providing voices for animated series such as "Family Guy" and "American Dad!"
4. Vahe Dekermendjian (born 1958), an Armenian-American composer, conductor, and music educator who has composed numerous works for orchestra, chamber ensembles, choir, and solo instruments. He is a professor of music at California State University, Los Angeles.
Genealogical research on the last name Dekirmendjian
The surname Dekirmendjian is of Armenian origin and is derived from the Ottoman Turkish title "Dekirmenji," meaning miller or mill owner. This patronymic name likely emerged during the Ottoman Empire, where such titles were often given to non-Muslim officials as a form of social distinction. The Dekirmendjians are believed to have originated from the historical region of Cilicia in present-day southeastern Turkey, which was home to a large Armenian population before the Armenian Genocide. After the genocide and subsequent displacement, many Dekirmendjians emigrated to various parts of the world, including the United States, France, Lebanon, and Syria. In the United States, the largest populations of the surname can be found in California and Massachusetts.
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