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Last Name Esfandiari

What is the origin of the last name Esfandiari?

The last name Esfandiari is of Iranian origin. It is a common surname in Iran and is typically associated with individuals of Persian descent. The name is believed to have originated from the word "Esfand" which means wild rue, a type of plant used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes in ancient Persia.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Esfandiari

The meaning and origin of the last name Esfandiari

Esfandiari is a Persian surname derived from the word "Esfand", which means "burnt offering" or "sacred plant" in Persian. This surname is commonly found among people of Iranian descent, particularly those of Zoroastrian faith. The Esfandiari surname likely originated as a name given to those who held a position of importance or had a strong connection to rituals or ceremonies. The use of surnames in Iran became more common during the Qajar dynasty in the 19th century, when it became necessary to distinguish individuals with similar given names. Today, the Esfandiari surname is still used by many Iranian families as a way to honor their cultural and religious heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Esfandiari

The last name Esfandiari is predominantly found in Iran, particularly in the central and northern regions of the country. The name is of Persian origin and is derived from the words "Esfand" meaning "wild rue" and "iari" meaning "possessing". As such, it is a common surname among individuals of Persian descent. In addition to Iran, the name Esfandiari can also be found in other countries with a significant Persian population such as Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Azerbaijan. Due to migration and globalization, individuals with the last name Esfandiari can also be found in other parts of the world, particularly in North America and Europe. Regardless of the geographical location, individuals with the surname Esfandiari often have a strong connection to their Persian heritage and culture.

Variants and spellings of the last name Esfandiari

Esfandiari is a Persian last name with several variations and spellings, including Esfandiar, Esfandyar, Isfandiyar, Isfandiar, and Isfandyar. The name is derived from the Persian epic poem "Shahnameh," which features a hero named Esfandiar. Due to different transliterations and dialects, the spelling of Esfandiari can vary among individuals and regions. In some cases, the name may also be written as Asfandiar or Asfandyar. Despite the various spellings, the meaning of the name remains consistent, often translated as "dispenser of salvation" or "possessing good knowledge." Esfandiari is a common surname in Iran and among the Iranian diaspora, with each spelling reflecting a unique pronunciation or interpretation of the original Persian name.

Famous people with the last name Esfandiari

Magician and illusionist Teller (of Penn & Teller) has been known to work with prominent figures in the magic industry, including famous mentalist Banachek. With his unique and mesmerizing performances, Teller has captivated audiences around the world and has become one of the most well-known magicians in the industry. Outside of his work in magic, Teller is also a talented writer and has published several books on the art of illusion. His dedication to his craft and his ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats have solidified his reputation as one of the greatest magicians of our time.

Genealogical research on the last name Esfandiari

The last name Esfandiari has Persian origins and is commonly found in Iran. It is believed to be derived from the word "esfand," which means "wild rue" in Persian. The Esfandiari family is believed to have descended from a long line of Persian nobility and scholars. The name is often associated with individuals who have excelled in various fields such as politics, academics, and the arts. Over the years, the Esfandiari family has spread to different parts of the world, including Europe and North America, where they have established themselves in various professions and industries. Genealogical research on the Esfandiari family may reveal connections to notable historical figures and significant events in Persian history.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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