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Last Name Kahan

What is the origin of the last name Kahan?

The last name "Kahan" is of Hebrew origin and is derived from the word "Kohen," which means priest in Hebrew. It is a common Jewish surname that is often associated with individuals from the priestly class in Judaism.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Kahan

The meaning and origin of the last name Kahan

The surname Kahan is of Hebrew origin, derived from the word "kohen," meaning priest or religious leader in Judaism. The title kohen was historically given to individuals who were descendants of the ancient priestly class or had a special role in religious ceremonies. The surname Kahan is most commonly found among Jewish populations, particularly those with Ashkenazi heritage. The name is considered to be an occupational surname, indicating a person who worked as a priest or had a connection to the priesthood. Over time, the surname Kahan has been passed down through generations, serving as a reminder of the individual's ancestral ties to the Jewish faith and tradition.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kahan

The last name Kahan is of Jewish origin and is most commonly found among individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. The surname is believed to have originated from Eastern Europe or the Middle East. Today, the geographical distribution of the last name Kahan is widespread, with significant populations in countries such as the United States, Israel, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In these countries, individuals with the surname Kahan can be found in various regions and cities, reflecting the diasporic nature of Jewish communities around the world. Additionally, there are smaller populations of individuals with the surname Kahan in countries such as Germany, Australia, and Argentina. Overall, the surname Kahan signifies a connection to Jewish heritage and culture, with its distribution reflecting the global reach of Jewish communities throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kahan

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Famous people with the last name Kahan

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Genealogical research on the last name Kahan

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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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