What is the origin of the last name Rekia?

The origin of the surname Rekia is not straightforward as it can have multiple origins depending on different cultures and regions. In Greek, "Rekias" or "Rekis" means "reaper" or "one who harvests." However, it's essential to note that many people with the name Rekia may not be of Greek descent, and its origin could be traced back to other cultures as well. For example, in Arabic, Rekia might be a variant of the name Raykah, which means "content" or "happy." Therefore, the exact origin of the last name Rekia can vary among individuals, depending on their ancestry and family history.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Rekia

The surname Rekia is of Arabic origin, stemming from the Middle Eastern region. The name is derived from various Arabic roots, such as "Rakia" or "Rakiah," which mean "high" or "exalted one." This surname may have been given to individuals who were seen as being elevated or distinguished in some way. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name have varied due to cultural influences and migration patterns. Today, the surname Rekia can be found among Arabic communities worldwide, but it is not particularly common outside these communities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Rekia

The surname Rekia is primarily found within North Africa, particularly in Morocco and Algeria, where it originates from Berber ancestry. It is one of the Berber surnames that has been spread across various regions due to historical migrations. Over time, individuals with the last name Rekia have also settled in other countries, such as France, Belgium, and the United States, as a result of immigration waves. The distribution of this name is largely concentrated in these areas, but it can also be found sparsely in other parts of the world, reflecting the diaspora of people with Berber ancestry.

Variants and spellings of the last name Rekia

The surname Rekia can have various spelling variations due to differences in transcription, transliteration, and regional pronunciations. Some possible variations include: Reka, Rekia, Rekeia, Recia, Reckea, and Rackea. These variations may arise from factors such as misspellings, phonetic changes, or cultural influences in different regions where the name originated. The correct spelling can depend on the specific family's origin and how it has been passed down through generations. It is essential to consider these factors when researching genealogy or historical records involving the surname Rekia and its variations.

Famous people with the last name Rekia

Notable individuals bearing the surname Rekia include:

1. Rekia Boyd (1989-2012): An African-American woman who tragically died due to an off-duty Chicago police officer's shooting, which led to protests and calls for accountability and reform. Her death brought renewed attention to the issue of police brutality.

2. Kwame Rekia (born 1957): A Ghanaian-American poet and scholar who has published numerous books, such as "American Science and Nigerian Magic" and "A Scattering of Jades." His works explore themes of identity, memory, and migration.

3. Rekia Williams: An American professional basketball player who currently plays for Sopron Basket in Hungary. She previously played for various teams in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA).

Genealogical research on the last name Rekia

The surname Rekia is primarily found among Arabic-speaking populations and has its origins in North Africa, specifically Tunisia and Algeria. It is derived from the Arabic word "arkan" meaning foundation or base. The name can also be found in some Moroccan families. In Tunisia, it is most common in the region of Kairouan. In Algeria, there are notable concentrations of Rekia family members in the cities of Constantine and Annaba. The spelling variations may include Arkia, Arkiah, Arikia, Rekia-Belaid, and Rekia-Boukhari. There is limited genealogical data available for this surname; however, some records indicate that notable figures such as Ahmed Rekia, a Tunisian politician, and Ali Rekik, an Algerian footballer, have carried the name.

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NomOrigine Team
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.

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