Last Name Kouli

The last name "Kouli" is of Greek origin. It is believed to be a surname derived from the Greek word "κουλή," meaning "small hill" or "mound." It is a relatively common surname in Greece and is typically found among Greek families.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Kouli

The meaning and origin of the last name Kouli

The surname Kouli is of Greek origin and is derived from the word "koulis," which means "little thief" in Greek. The surname is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who was skilled at stealing or was considered mischievous or cunning. It is possible that the surname was also used as a way to mock or tease someone for their sneaky or clever nature. Over time, the surname Kouli may have been passed down through generations, with descendants carrying on the name as a family surname. Today, the surname Kouli can be found in various Greek-speaking regions and among Greek communities worldwide, serving as a reminder of its origins and the characteristics associated with it.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kouli

The last name Kouli is predominantly found in Greece, particularly in the regions of Epirus, Thessaly, and Central Greece. It is a relatively rare surname, with a concentration of individuals bearing this name in the cities of Ioannina, Karditsa, and Larissa. There are also smaller populations of individuals with the last name Kouli in other parts of Europe, such as Germany, where it is seen as a surname of Greek origin. Additionally, some individuals with the surname Kouli can be found in countries like the United States, Australia, and Canada, likely as a result of immigration and diaspora from Greece. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Kouli reflects its roots in Greece while also showing its presence in other parts of the world due to historical and modern migration patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kouli

The last name Kouli may be spelled and seen in various variations such as Kuli, Koulis, Kulie, Kulis, Kooli, Koolis, Koolie, Koolis, Kouley, Kooly, Kowli, Kowlie, Kowly, Kowlee, Kowleys, Kuly, Kuley, Kulee, Kuleys, Kuuoli, Kuooli, Kuoly, Kooly, Kolee, Koley, Kolie, Koli, and Koolie. Each spelling variation may represent the same family lineage or may be the result of anglicization or transliteration of the original surname. The name Kouli can be of Greek, Hindi, or other cultural origins, and the variations in spelling can depend on the region or individual lineage. Despite the different spellings, the name Kouli retains its unique identity and significance in the history and heritage of those who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Kouli

One famous person with the last name Kouli is Christos Koulianos, a Greek professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for AEK Athens. He has represented the Greek national team and has also played for clubs such as Panionios and PAOK. Another well-known individual with the last name Kouli is Stelios Koulioumpas, a Greek actor known for his roles in various Greek films and television series. He has gained recognition for his versatile acting skills and has garnered a loyal fan base in Greece. Additionally, Maria Kouli is a prominent figure in the fashion industry, known for her work as a successful fashion designer and entrepreneur. She has achieved global recognition for her innovative designs and has dressed many celebrities and public figures.

Genealogical research on the last name Kouli

The surname Kouli appears to originate from Greece, particularly the region of Epirus. The name is believed to be of pre-Christian origin and is likely linked to the Greek word "kouloi," which translates to "curls" or "curly hair." It is possible that individuals with the surname Kouli may have been noted for their unique physical characteristics, such as curly hair. Research into the genealogy of the Kouli family indicates that the name has been passed down through generations in Greece, with some branches possibly emigrating to other countries. Further study into the history of the Kouli surname could reveal more about its origins, migration patterns, and connections to other families with similar surnames.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "kouli"
• 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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