The surname Kidi is of African origin and specifically belongs to the Ga-Dangme people who reside in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. The name is often associated with the Krobo Kingdom, one of the traditional areas within the Ga-Dangme states. In the Ga language, "kidi" means "born on Thursday," which suggests that an individual bearing this surname could have been born on a Thursday according to the local tradition or customs. However, it is essential to note that surnames can sometimes undergo changes during migration and may not always retain their original meaning or origins exactly.
The surname Kidic or Kidı (pronounced [kiˈdi]) is primarily of Turkish origin. It is an occupational name derived from the Old Turkic word "kidi," which refers to a butcher or a meat dealer. This name was commonly adopted by individuals who were engaged in the trade of selling and preparing meats, particularly during the Ottoman Empire era. In some cases, it may also be a patronymic surname, derived from the given name Kido, meaning "gift of God" in Turkish. Variations of this surname can include Kidz, Kidzey, Kidichi, Kidich, and Kidi, among others, due to various phonetic changes over time in different regions and languages.
Geographical distribution of the last name Kidi
The surname Kidi is predominantly found in West Africa, particularly in Togo and Benin, due to its ethnic origin among the Kabye people of northern Togo. Its distribution also extends to other parts of Africa, such as Ghana, where it is less common but still present. Beyond Africa, there are also small populations of individuals with the Kidi surname in European countries like France and Italy, primarily due to migration from Africa. Additionally, there may be sporadic occurrences of this name in other parts of the world as a result of diaspora and global mobility.
Variants and spellings of the last name Kidi
The surname Kidi can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in transcription and translation across languages and time periods. Some common spelling variations include Kidi, Kidy, Kydy, Keydi, Keidi, and even Kyddie or Kidde in some cases. These variations may arise from different regions, dialects, or historical periods, but they all share the same roots as the original name. It's essential to understand that these variations do not indicate separate names or families; rather, they represent alternate ways of spelling the same family name.
Famous people with the last name Kidi
Notable individuals with the surname Kiddo/Kidi are primarily associated with the music industry. The most renowned among them is Angélique Kidjo (b. 1960), a Beninese singer-songwriter, actress, and activist. Often referred to as "Africa's premier diva," she has won multiple Grammy Awards and is known for her unique blend of African traditions with modern music styles like pop, funk, and jazz. Another notable figure is CKay (Chukwuka Ekweani, b. 1994), a Nigerian singer-songwriter and record producer, who gained international fame in 2020 with the single "Love Nwantiti." In addition to these figures, Kidjo's brother, Joël Ajuakye Kidjo, is also an accomplished musician and composer.
Genealogical research on the last name Kidi
The Kidi surname is predominantly found among the Fante people of Ghana and has its roots in the coastal regions of the Central Region. The name Kidi is derived from the stool name of the ancient kingdom of Akwamu, which means "leopard." It's believed that the surname was adopted by some members of the Akwamu migrant group who settled along the coast and assimilated into Fante society during the 18th century. Notable individuals with the Kidi surname include Kwabena Kwabena, a popular Ghanaian musician, and Samuel Kofi Woods, a Ghanaian lawyer and politician. The name has variations such as Kidie, Kidié, and Quidjo. The lineage of the Kidi family can be traced back to the Akwamu kingdom, providing a historical context for this intriguing surname.
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