Last Name Kohan

The surname "Kohan" is of Persian origin. It is derived from the Persian word "kohan," which means ancient or old. In Iran, the term "Kohan" was often used to refer to people from ancestral or noble families. Over time, this term evolved into a surname and is now used by individuals of Persian descent.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Kohan

The meaning and origin of the last name Kohan

The surname Kohan is of Jewish origin with roots in Eastern Europe, particularly in Ukraine and Belarus. Derived from the Hebrew word "kohein," meaning priest, the name was often used to denote someone belonging to the priestly class, descendants of Aaron, the brother of Moses in the Bible. However, it is important to note that not all bearers of the surname Kohan are actual priests or have a direct lineage to the priestly class. The name was likely adopted as a surname during the Jewish diaspora in Eastern Europe, where individuals were often given surnames for identification and administrative purposes. Today, the surname Kohan can be found worldwide, particularly in Jewish communities, and is often associated with individuals of Jewish descent or heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kohan

The last name Kohan is of Iranian origin and is most commonly found in Iran, particularly among the Jewish community. It is also present in other countries with large Iranian populations, such as Israel, the United States, and Canada. In Iran, the Kohan surname is often associated with individuals of Jewish descent, as Kohan is a common Jewish surname that means "priest" in Hebrew. Due to historical migrations and the dispersal of the Jewish community, individuals with the last name Kohan can also be found in other parts of the world, such as Europe and Australia. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Kohan is most concentrated in Iran and among the Iranian Jewish diaspora, but can also be found in various other countries with Iranian and Jewish populations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kohan

The last name "Kohan" can be found spelled in various ways, including "Kohan", "Cohan", "Kochan", "Kogan", and "Kohann". These variations may have emerged due to changes in spelling over time, differences in pronunciation, or transcription errors. Additionally, regional differences and cultural influences can also play a role in the different spellings of this surname. Whether it is spelled with a "C" or a "K", with an "h" or without, the name "Kohan" remains a unique and distinctive last name with a rich history and potential connections to various regions and cultures. These variations serve as a reminder of the diversity and complexity of surnames and the importance of recognizing and respecting individual preferences when it comes to the spelling and pronunciation of names.

Famous people with the last name Kohan

The Kohan family is known for their various contributions to the entertainment industry. Some famous people with the last name Kohan include Jenji Kohan, a well-known television producer and writer who created hit shows like "Weeds" and "Orange is the New Black". Her work has earned her both critical acclaim and numerous awards. Another notable figure is David Kohan, a talented television producer and writer who co-created the popular sitcom "Will & Grace". His work on the show helped revolutionize the representation of LGBTQ+ characters on television. These siblings have made a lasting impact on the entertainment world with their unique storytelling abilities and dedication to creating groundbreaking television content.

Genealogical research on the last name Kohan

The surname Kohan is of Persian origin, meaning "priest" or "religious scholar." It is believed to have originated in Iran or neighboring regions and may have been used to denote someone who had a religious or scholarly role within the community. The surname Kohan is relatively rare and is not commonly found in Western countries. However, there are individuals with the surname Kohan who have emigrated to countries such as the United States, where they have established their family roots. Research into the genealogy of the Kohan surname may reveal connections to specific regions in Iran or migration patterns of individuals with this surname. Overall, the surname Kohan holds significance within Persian culture and may have a long and rich history that deserves further exploration through genealogical research.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Kohan"
• 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 : 11 April 2025

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