What is the origin of the last name Sumareh?

The surname Sumareh is of Arabic origin. It derives from the Arabic term "as-Sumar" which means "the Roman" or "the Byzantine". This name was given to people who were perceived to have characteristics resembling those of Romans or Byzantines, such as wisdom, leadership, or civilization. The name has been adopted by various ethnic groups in the Middle East and North Africa, including Arabic, Turkish, and Persian communities. It is also found among some African populations due to historical interactions between these regions.
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Learn more about the origin of the last name Sumareh

The meaning and origin of the last name Sumareh

The surname Sumareh is of Arabic origin and derives from the word "sumar," which means "camel driver" or "camel merchant." This name was originally given to people who were involved in the trading or herding of camels, as they played a significant role in the economy and transportation in ancient Arabia. Over time, this name has been adopted by various communities, and its spelling may have changed slightly due to regional variations and migration patterns. Today, Sumareh is primarily found among Arabic-speaking populations, although it has also been absorbed into other cultures through intermarriage and migration. The surname can be found in countries such as Egypt, Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, among others.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sumareh

The last name Sumareh is predominantly found in West Africa, primarily within the countries of Guinea, Senegal, and Gambia, which are part of the Western Sudanic region. It is also present, though less frequently, in neighboring Mali and Sierra Leone. The concentration of this surname can be particularly high in rural areas and certain ethnic groups, such as the Fula or Peulh, who are traditionally semi-nomadic pastoralists. The name may have originated from the Fula term "Sumawar," which means "soldier" or "warrior." Its distribution outside of West Africa is relatively scarce, with occasional occurrences in other parts of the world due to migration and diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sumareh

The surname Sumareh has several variations and spellings across different regions. These include Sumaré, Sumarae, Sumerah, Summara, Summare, and Summereh, among others. Each spelling can be found in various parts of the world where the name is carried, reflecting cultural and regional differences in pronunciation and orthography. It's essential to note that the correct spelling can depend on personal preference, local customs, or the specific language and alphabet used. The roots of the Sumareh surname may be traced back to different origins, with some families originating from Africa, while others might have connections to Asia. Despite these variations, all forms of Sumareh are part of a rich cultural heritage shared by individuals bearing this name.

Famous people with the last name Sumareh

Among notable figures bearing the surname Sumareh are:

1. Mohammad Javad Zarif - Born in 1960, he is an Iranian diplomat who has served as the country's Foreign Minister since 2013. He was instrumental in negotiating the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) and is a key figure in international diplomacy.

2. Moussa Soumaré - A French professional footballer, born in 1996, he plays as a defender for English Premier League club Leicester City F.C. and the France national team.

3. Al-Hajj Hassan Sumareh - A prominent Gambian politician who served as the Speaker of the National Assembly from 2017 to 2018. He was also a member of the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC).

These individuals have made significant impacts in their respective fields, showcasing the diversity and accomplishments that can be achieved by people sharing the last name Sumareh.

Genealogical research on the last name Sumareh

The surname Sumareh is predominantly found among the Mandinka people, an ethnic group indigenous to West Africa, particularly in present-day Gambia, Guinea, Senegal, and Mali. The name Sumareh, translating roughly to 'one who has authority' or 'leader', originates from the Mandinka language. It is believed that individuals bearing this surname may have held significant roles within their communities, acting as chiefs, leaders, or influencers. The family tree of Sumarehs can be traced back centuries, with records indicating a migration pattern moving eastward from Mali across West Africa over time. As diaspora spread, the name became more common in regions such as the United States and Europe, particularly among immigrant communities. Today, the Sumareh family is widely distributed across various countries, maintaining a rich cultural heritage while adapting to new environments.

Last name distribution maps

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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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