Last Name Gazikian

The surname Gazikian is believed to have originated from various sources, as with many Armenian surnames. One possible origin is from a geographical location. The name could be derived from the region of Gaziyan or Gazik in modern-day Turkey, which was historically inhabited by Armenians. Another theory suggests that the name might have been a nickname derived from the Armenian word "gaz" meaning "brave" or "courageous." It is important to note that surnames did not exist in Armenia before the 19th century, and most names were patronymic. The adoption of Western-style surnames started with the Ottoman census conducted between 1896 and 1903, which required all subjects to adopt a family name. This information is subject to variations based on different genealogical resources and experts' interpretations. For a more accurate and detailed explanation of your specific Gazikian lineage, it may be helpful to consult Armenian genealogical organizations or professional genealogists specializing in Armenian heritage research.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Gazikian

The meaning and origin of the last name Gazikian

The surname Gazikian is of Armenian origin, derived from the location of Gazik or Gazikah, a town located in historical western Armenia near Lake Van. This region was part of the Ottoman Empire and is now modern-day Turkey. The name is thought to have been given to individuals who lived in or came from this specific area. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname may have varied due to factors such as migration, transcription errors, and assimilation into different cultures. Today, Gazikian is found among Armenian diaspora communities worldwide.

Geographical distribution of the last name Gazikian

The surname Gazikian is predominantly found in Armenia and its diaspora, particularly among Armenians who originated from the town of Gaziyan, located in eastern Turkey. Historically, the Gazikians migrated to various parts of the Ottoman Empire before many were forced to flee during the Armenian Genocide in 1915. A significant number of Gazikians settled in Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and Cyprus as a result of these events. In more recent times, members of this family have also emigrated to Western countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe, expanding the geographical distribution of the name.

Variants and spellings of the last name Gazikian

The surname Gazikian can have various spellings and variations, primarily due to differences in transliteration and transcription across languages and regions. Some common variations include Gagikian, Gasikian, Gassikian, Gazikeyan, Gazzickian, Gazikyan, and Gazichian. These variations arise from slight adjustments in spelling based on factors such as the language used for phonetic transliteration or personal preference in spelling. The name is of Armenian origin and is derived from the given name Gagik.

Famous people with the last name Gazikian

Notable individuals with the surname Gazikian include:

1. Araxie Gazikian (born 1984), an American-Armenian violinist and conductor who is the Music Director and Conductor for the Armenian Musical Ensemble, a leading Armenian classical music ensemble in the United States.

2. Hratch Gazikian (1925-2017), an Armenian-American artist known for his work in ceramics, sculpture, and murals. He was a founding member of the Los Angeles Art Association and had numerous solo and group exhibitions throughout his career.

3. Kevork Gazikian (born 1964), a Canadian-Armenian conductor, composer, pianist, and music educator. He is the Music Director of the Toronto Armenian Philharmonic Orchestra and has worked with various orchestras in Canada and the United States.

These individuals have made significant contributions to the fields of music and art, reflecting their diverse talents and dedication to preserving and promoting Armenian culture.

Genealogical research on the last name Gazikian

The Gazikian surname is believed to have originated from Armenia, with roots tracing back to the ancient kingdoms of Cilicia and Artsakh. Early records suggest that the Gazikians were feudal lords in these regions during medieval times. The name derives from the Persian word "Gazi," meaning warrior or fighter, and was likely adopted by several Armenian families due to their military roles.

Over time, the Gazikian family expanded beyond Armenia, with notable migrations to the Ottoman Empire and later, the diaspora following the Armenian Genocide in 1915. Some members of the Gazikian family migrated to Europe, North America, and Australia, establishing new settlements and contributing to their respective communities.

Today, the Gazikian surname can be found globally among Armenian diaspora communities, with notable figures including Hovhannes Gazikian, a renowned painter, and Kevork Gazikian, an influential businessman and philanthropist. Research on the Gazikian genealogy continues to uncover more about this historic and resilient family line.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "gazikian"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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 : 30 July 2025

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