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Last Name Laidi

What is the origin of the last name Laidi?

The surname Laidi is of Arabic origin. It comes from the Arabic word "Ludd" or "al-Ludd", which means "the lion" or "from the tribe of the lion". This surname is commonly found among the Bedouin tribes in North Africa and the Middle East. However, it's important to note that the distribution and frequency of the name can vary greatly depending on the specific region and population under consideration.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Laidi

The meaning and origin of the last name Laidi

The surname Laidi originates from France, specifically in the region of Savoie. It is derived from the occupation of a 'laid', which in Old French meant 'the lame' or 'crippled'. This term was used for those who had physical disabilities, often related to war injuries. Over time, these occupational surnames became hereditary, with families adopting the name of their ancestor's occupation, even if no longer applicable. The name Laidi, over centuries, has been modified and spelled in various ways, including Ladey, Laidet, Layde, and others, reflecting the phonetic changes that occur in a surname as it is passed down through different regions and generations. Today, the Laidi/Laidet family name can be found not only in France but also among its diaspora around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Laidi

The surname Laidi is predominantly found in North Africa, particularly in Algeria and Tunisia, due to its Arabic origin. It is also present in France, where it may have been adopted by immigrants from the Maghreb region. Smaller numbers of individuals bearing the name can be found in other parts of the world, including Canada, the United States, and Australia, primarily among people of Algerian or Tunisian descent. The dispersal of this surname is largely due to migration as a result of historical events such as colonization, war, and economic factors.

Variants and spellings of the last name Laidi

The surname Laidi may be spelled and pronounced in several ways due to differences in transliteration and regional dialects. Some common variants include Laidy, Laeidi, Laïdi (with an acute accent on the "i"), La'idi, and Laydi. The spelling can also vary depending on the country or language of origin. For example, French speakers might favor spellings such as Laidi or Laëidi, while English speakers may prefer Laidi or Laidy. It is always important to remember that surnames are often subjective in their transcription and that multiple spellings can be used by different individuals with the same ancestral roots.

Famous people with the last name Laidi

Prominent individuals sharing the surname Laidi include:

1. Jean-Baptiste Laidi (born 1963), a French footballer who played as a defender for clubs like RC Strasbourg and Marseille, and earned 47 caps for France's national team.

2. Yannick Laidi (born 1984), a French professional basketball player known for his career with Cholet Basket in France's Pro A league. He has also represented France at the international level.

3. Kader Laidi (born 1997), a French professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Toulouse FC in France's Ligue 2.

4. Marie Laidi (born 1986), a French journalist and television presenter, currently working at France 5, where she presents the news program "Télématin". She was previously part of France 24's team in Paris, New York, and Rio de Janeiro.

Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields within French sports and journalism.

Genealogical research on the last name Laidi

The surname Laidi originates from France, specifically the region of Brittany. It is an occupational name derived from the Old French "laid" meaning "lame," referring to someone who was physically impaired or had a lame animal. Over time, it evolved into Laidi as a patronymic surname. Some early bearers of this name include Jean Lai du in the 13th century and Guillaume Ley du in the 14th century, both recorded in Normandy. The family expanded to other regions of France and later migrated to other countries due to religious persecution during the Huguenot period. Today, the name is found primarily in France but also among French immigrants in various parts of the world, including North America, Australia, and Africa. Notable individuals with this surname include French author and politician Michel Laidi and Algerian-born Canadian comedian Khalid Laidi.

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 : 15 June 2025

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