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Last Name Rebahi

What is the origin of the last name Rebahi?

The surname Rebahi is likely of Arabic origin. In Arabic, the name Rebahi could be a variant of the name "Rabah," which means "great" or "elevated." As with many surnames, the specific origins can vary based on individual family histories and migratory patterns. The name may have spread to other regions through Arabic-speaking communities, including North Africa and the Middle East. However, it's essential to note that this is a general interpretation, and personal research or consultation with genealogists might provide more accurate information for specific families with the Rebahi surname.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Rebahi

The meaning and origin of the last name Rebahi

The surname Rebahi is of Arabic origin, derived from the word "Rabah," which means 'great' or 'exalted' in Arabic. It is a common surname among individuals of Arab descent, particularly those from North Africa and the Middle East. The name has been anglicized over time to various forms, including Rebaï, Rebai, and Rebahy. Its usage as a surname reflects the historical influence of Arab culture in these regions. The name signifies a person who is considered 'great' or 'exalted' in some capacity, whether it be in terms of personal character, social status, or professional accomplishments.

Geographical distribution of the last name Rebahi

The last name Rebahi is predominantly found in North African countries, particularly Algeria and Tunisia, due to their Arabic origin. It's derived from the Arabic word "ar-Rabah," meaning "the high place." In Algeria, it's most prevalent in regions such as Oran, Tlemcen, and Constantine, where Arabic influence is strong. In Tunisia, it can be found in various areas, particularly Sousse and Kairouan. A smaller number of individuals bearing the surname Rebahi can also be found in France, due to migration from these North African countries during the colonial era and later as refugees or immigrants. The name is less common outside of these regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Rebahi

The surname Rebahi can have several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration and regional pronunciation. Some common variations include Rebehi, Rebahey, Rebaï, Rebai, and Rebaii. These variations may arise from different methods of transliteration from Arabic to Latin script or from minor phonetic differences in pronunciation. The original Arabic name is رباحي (Rabāḥī) which translates to "those who have strong eagles" or "eagle warriors". This surname is most commonly found among Arabic-speaking populations, particularly in North Africa and the Middle East.

Famous people with the last name Rebahi

Notable individuals with the surname Rebahi include:

1. Ahmed Rebahi: Algerian footballer who played as a defender for JS Kabylie and the Algeria national team, winning several domestic and international awards.
2. Houari Boumédienne Rebahi: Algerian military officer and politician who served as President of Algeria from 1976 until his death in 1978, playing a significant role in shaping Algeria's political landscape during the post-independence era.
3. Rabah Kherbouche Rebahi: Tunisian footballer who played as a striker for clubs such as CS Sfaxien and Esperance de Tunis, and the Tunisia national team, scoring over 100 goals in his career.
4. Amine Rebahi: Algerian long-distance runner who competed at the Olympics and set several Algerian national records. He won bronze medals in the 5000 meters at both the African Championships and the All-Africa Games.
5. Salim Rebahi: French footballer who played as a forward for clubs such as AJ Auxerre, Lens, and Reims, scoring over 100 goals during his career. He also represented France at various youth levels.

Genealogical research on the last name Rebahi

The surname Rebahi originates from the Maghreb region, specifically Algeria and Tunisia, where it is commonly found among Arabic-speaking populations. It is derived from the given name Rabeh or Rabee, which means "growth" or "increase" in Arabic. The name Rebahi may have been a patronymic surname, meaning "son of Rabeh." In Algeria, the name can be found in several provinces, with concentrations in Oran and Constantine. In Tunisia, it is most prevalent in the governorate of Sousse. The Rebahi family has a rich history, with notable members including scholars, politicians, and artists across North Africa. A prominent member, Ahmed Rebai, was a prominent Algerian intellectual and writer during the 20th century. Despite its Maghrebi origins, the Rebahi surname is also found among Algerian communities in France, Canada, and other Western countries due to migration in the 20th century.

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 : 29 July 2025

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