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Last Name Mikdad

What is the origin of the last name Mikdad?

The surname Mikdad is of Arabic origin and is derived from the Arabic given name Mikdad, which means "given by God" or "belonging to God." This name was borne by a prominent early Muslim clan in Syria, known as Banu Mikdad. Over time, individuals bearing this name spread across various regions and adopted it as their family surname. The spelling of the surname may vary depending on regional variations and linguistic influences.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mikdad

The meaning and origin of the last name Mikdad

The surname Mikdad is derived from an ancient Arabic name that translates to "gift of God" or "God has granted." It originated from the Semitic root 'md', which signifies 'to give.' The name became popular among Arab tribes, particularly those in Syria and Lebanon, where it was often given as a mark of respect or gratitude. Over time, various spellings and transliterations have emerged for this surname, including Mikdat, Mikhday, Mekdad, and Makdad, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that shaped its usage across regions and generations. Today, individuals with the name Mikdad can be found in various parts of the world, carrying with them a rich history and tradition rooted in ancient Arabic naming conventions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mikdad

The last name Mikdad is predominantly of Arab origin, primarily found in regions with significant Arabic-speaking populations, particularly the Middle East. It is most frequent among Arab communities in Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine. Within these countries, it can be traced back to various towns and cities, such as Mikdad in Syria's Homs Governorate or Mikdash in Palestine. Additionally, there are smaller populations of individuals with the surname Mikdad in other parts of the world due to migration, particularly to North America, Europe, and Australia, where many Arab immigrants have settled.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mikdad

The surname Mikdad can have various spellings and variations due to differences in transcription and translation over time. Some common spelling variations include: Mekdad, Meckdad, Mikdat, Mikdaad, Meikdad, and Mahmoud. These variations may arise from regional dialects or individual preferences. It is also possible for individuals to change the spelling of their surname over generations due to immigration, assimilation, or personal preference. The name Mikdad is an Arabic name that means "given by God." It is a common name in Arabic-speaking countries and has various pronunciations depending on the region.

Famous people with the last name Mikdad

The Mikdad family is known for its significant contributions across various fields, primarily in politics and academia. One prominent member is Riyad al-Mikdad, who serves as Syria's Deputy Foreign Minister since 2006. His role has been instrumental in maintaining diplomatic relations between Syria and other countries. In the academic realm, Fawwaz T. Mikdad, a Syrian-American political scientist, is renowned for his works on Middle Eastern politics, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution. Another notable figure is Sahar Mikdad, a Syrian journalist and writer, who has written extensively about Middle Eastern affairs and women's rights. However, it's important to note that these are just a few examples of the influential Mikdads in the global arena.

Genealogical research on the last name Mikdad

The Mikdad family is a prominent Arab clan originally from the region of Homs in Syria. Historically, they held significant power and influence during the Umayyad Caliphate (661-750 AD). One of the most notable members was Abd al-Aziz ibn Marwan, who served as the Umayyad caliph in Damascus from 680 to 683. The Mikdads are believed to have originated from the Kalb tribe and were known for their military prowess. Over the centuries, the Mikdads have dispersed across various parts of the Middle East, with descendants also found in Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq. In modern times, members of the Mikdad family have held prominent positions in Syrian politics and society, including former President Hafez al-Assad, who came from a sub-clan known as the Alawites, and his son Bashar al-Assad, the current President of Syria.

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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