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Last Name Kheireddine

What is the origin of the last name Kheireddine?

The surname Kheireddine has roots in North Africa, specifically Tunisia and Algeria. It originates from the Arabic name "Khair al-Din" which means "noble of the faith." This name was often given to individuals during the Ottoman Empire era who converted to Islam or held positions of power within the Islamic realm. Over time, many families with this name have adopted it as a surname.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Kheireddine

The meaning and origin of the last name Kheireddine

The surname Kheireddine is of Arabic origin, specifically from North Africa, particularly Tunisia and Algeria. It translates to "the master of the faith" or "the lord of the religion". The name is derived from the Arabic phrase "al-khaīr al-dīn", which means "the good religion." The surname likely emerged during the Islamic Golden Age as a way for families to assert their religious devotion and status. The name has been carried by notable figures in Tunisia, such as Mohamed Kheireddine Pacha, a prominent 19th-century statesman who served as the Prime Minister of Tunisia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kheireddine

The Kheireddine surname has its origins in Tunisia and is predominantly found among people of Tunisian descent. It is derived from the Arabic word "kheir," meaning "good" or "beneficent," and "ed-din," meaning "religion." The name Kheireddine is relatively uncommon outside of Tunisia, although there are small communities of Tunisian immigrants who have settled in France, Canada, and the United States where the surname can also be found. In Tunisia, the Kheireddine family is a notable one, with several prominent political figures and intellectuals bearing the name. Notable bearers include Habib Bourguiba, the first President of Tunisia, and Rached Ghannouchi, the leader of the Ennahda Party.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kheireddine

The Kheireddine surname has various spelling variations due to differences in transliteration and regional pronunciation. Some common spelling variants include Khayr Eddine, Khayratdin, Khayreddin, Khayreddine, Khayredeen, Khayer Eddine, and Kheir-Eddine. These variations stem from the Arabic name خير الدين (Khayr al-Dīn), which translates to "the best of religion" or "goodness of faith." The surname is predominantly found among people of Arab descent, particularly those with origins in North Africa and Lebanon. It's essential to note that the correct spelling can often depend on personal preference or historical context.

Famous people with the last name Kheireddine

Notable individuals bearing the surname Kheireddine include:

1. Mostafa Kheireddine (born 1967), a Lebanese businessman and former politician who served as Minister of Energy and Water in the Lebanese government from 2005 to 2008.

2. Nizar Al-Kheir Eddine (born 1936), a Syrian military officer and political figure, who played an important role during the Hama uprising of 1982 as commander of the 4th Armored Division.

3. Nabil Kheireddine (born 1955), a Lebanese architect known for his contributions to Beirut's urban landscape, including the rebuilding of the city center after the Lebanese Civil War.

4. Sami Kheirreddine (born 1982), a Canadian-Lebanese mixed martial artist and former professional boxer who has competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

5. Youssef Kheireddine (born 1980), a Lebanese actor, producer, and director, best known for his roles in films like "Caramel" (2007) and "Under the Bombs" (2006).

Genealogical research on the last name Kheireddine

The Kheireddine family originates from Tunisia, with roots traced back to the medieval town of Sousse. The surname is derived from the Arabic phrase "al-khayr al-din," which translates to "the good religion." The family was prominent in the Ottoman Empire era, serving in various administrative and military roles. Notable members include Ali Pasha Kheireddine, who served as the Bey of Tunis from 1837 to 1855, and his son, Ahmed Ibn Mustafa Kheireddine, a naval commander known for modernizing the Tunisian navy. The Kheireddine family continues to be prominent in Tunisia today, with members holding political, business, and cultural roles. Genealogical records suggest a significant number of descendants residing not only in Tunisia but also in various countries where Tunisians have migrated, such as France, Canada, the United States, and Australia.

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 : 30 July 2025

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