The surname Ekici is of Turkish origin. It is a common surname among people from Turkey, particularly those who originate from the city of Eskişehir, which translates to "Old City" in English. This surname often denotes that the bearer or their ancestors came from that region. However, it's important to note that the exact origin can vary for different families with this surname due to the diversity within Turkish surnames.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Ekici
The meaning and origin of the last name Ekici
The surname Ekici is of Turkish origin, specifically from Anatolia, the geographical part of Asia Minor that makes up the Asian part of modern-day Turkey. The name is derived from various occupations or locations, with "eki" meaning "apprentice," "assistant," or "helper" in Turkish. It could have been used as a surname for someone who was an assistant to a master craftsman or tradesman, or it might have originated from a place name, such as a village where the apprentices lived and worked. Over time, this surname has spread beyond Turkey due to migration and assimilation, becoming a common name in various parts of the world today.
Geographical distribution of the last name Ekici
The surname Ekici is predominantly found among populations originating from Turkey. It is most commonly distributed in the western and northern regions of the country, particularly in urban areas such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Bursa. This reflects the historical settlement patterns of Turkish immigrants from the Balkans, who brought this surname to Anatolia during the Ottoman Empire's expansion. In addition, smaller clusters of Ekici descendants can be found among the diaspora in various countries, such as Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and the United States, primarily due to labor migration and resettlement over the past century.
Variants and spellings of the last name Ekici
The last name Ekici has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in transliteration from Turkish to English. Some common variations include Ekiciy, Ekitchi, Ekizci, Ekiçi, and Ekiciyi. These variations may arise from regional dialects or differences in transcription over time. In addition, the name can also be found with different endings such as -oglu, -oglou, or -ovich which signify "son of" in Turkish. For example, a person named Ekici might have the surname Ekicioglu or Ekicioglou if their father's name was Ekici. Similarly, Ekiciovich would indicate that their father's name was also Ekici. These variations serve to provide more specific identification within families and communities in Turkey.
Famous people with the last name Ekici
The Ekici family has produced notable figures across various fields. Born in Germany to Turkish parents, Aylin Tezel is a renowned actress who gained international recognition for her roles in films like "Inglorious Basterds" and the German series "4 Blocks." In the field of academia, Fatih Ekici, born in Turkey, serves as the director of the Istanbul Policy Center at Sabancı University. He is also a columnist for the Turkish daily Hürriyet newspaper, focusing on European politics. Another notable figure is Cemal Ekici, a Turkish-German author and journalist who has written extensively about politics and history in Europe and Turkey. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, demonstrating the global impact of the Ekici family.
Genealogical research on the last name Ekici
The surname Ekici originates from Turkey and is derived from the Turkish word "ekici," which means "craftsman" or "artisan." It is a common surname in several regions of Turkey, particularly in the cities of Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Bursa. The earliest recorded use of the surname Ekici can be traced back to the 16th century during the Ottoman Empire. The name was often given to individuals who were skilled craftsmen or artisans, such as blacksmiths, carpenters, or goldsmiths. Over time, the surname has spread beyond Turkey and is now found in various countries with Turkish diaspora communities, including Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, and Australia. Genealogical research on Ekici families reveals a rich history of skilled artisans who have contributed to various industries over centuries.
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