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Last Name Fekir

What is the origin of the last name Fekir?

The origin of the surname Fekir is rooted in multiple cultures due to its phonetic similarity with various names across different languages. However, it's most commonly associated with Arabic and Hebrew origins. In Arabic, Fekir means "memory" or "recollection." This could be a result of Arabic-speaking individuals adopting the name after migration to other countries. In Hebrew, a similar-sounding name, Pikar, translates to "melody" or "song." The name may have been altered during the process of adoption and transmission through generations in different cultures. It's also possible that Fekir is derived from other languages with similar-sounding names, but these are the most probable origins based on phonetic similarities.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Fekir

The meaning and origin of the last name Fekir

The surname Fekir originates from Egypt, specifically the Nubia region, and is derived from the Arabic name "Abu Fikr," which translates to "Father of Wisdom" or "Father of Thought." It is a patronymic surname, indicating that it was originally used as a prefix to signify a son. The name may have been brought to other regions through the Arab slave trade or migration, particularly in North Africa and the Middle East. Over time, various spellings have emerged due to linguistic influences and changes, such as Fekri, Feikar, and others, reflecting its diverse cultural history.

Geographical distribution of the last name Fekir

The surname Fekir is primarily of Arabic origin, stemming from the Middle Eastern and North African region. It is most prevalent among populations of Maghrebi descent, including Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco. The name has also been found in France due to immigration and integration of people from these countries. Outside of this region, it is less common but may be found among diaspora communities around the world, particularly in countries with significant French influence such as Canada and some parts of sub-Saharan Africa. In the global context, Fekir is not a widespread surname, but its concentration in the Maghreb suggests strong cultural ties to this region.

Variants and spellings of the last name Fekir

The surname Fekir can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in transcription and translation over time and across regions. Some common versions include Fekker, Fekier, Fekar, Fekyr, and Fekkeri. These variations may stem from regional dialects or differences in the way names were recorded historically. However, it is essential to note that the most standardized form of the name today is "Fekir". This spelling is widely recognized internationally, particularly due to its prominence among individuals of Arabic or Berber descent.

Famous people with the last name Fekir

Fekir, a notable surname of Algerian origin, has produced several distinguished individuals across various fields. One of the most renowned is Riyad Mahrez, an Algerian professional footballer who plays as a winger for Manchester City and the Algeria national team. He was named PFA Players' Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year in 2016 while playing for Leicester City, contributing significantly to their historic Premier League title win. Another notable figure is Naima Fekir, a French-Algerian singer who rose to fame after winning the sixth season of the French talent show "Star Academy" in 2007. Her career has since spanned multiple music genres, making her one of France's most successful contemporary Arab singers.

Genealogical research on the last name Fekir

The Fekir surname is primarily of Arabic origin, derived from the given name "Fakhr" meaning "glory" or "pride." The name has been variously spelled as Fekri, Fekira, and Feikra in different regions due to linguistic variations. The Fekirs are believed to have originated from North Africa, particularly Egypt and Tunisia, where the surname is common among Arabic-speaking communities.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, many individuals with the Fekir name migrated to Europe and North America due to political instability, economic hardship, or opportunities for education and work. In Europe, significant populations of Fekirs can be found in France, Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. In North America, they are particularly numerous in Canada and the United States, with concentrations in Quebec and the Midwest regions, respectively.

Notable individuals bearing the Fekir name include Riyad Mahrez, an Algerian professional footballer who plays as a winger for Manchester City and the Algeria national team; and Hocine Fekir, a renowned Algerian historian, archaeologist, and politician. The Fekirs have maintained their cultural heritage while adapting to their new environments, reflecting the global diaspora of Arabic families throughout 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 : 29 July 2025

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