Last Name Zahedi

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zahedi

The meaning and origin of the last name Zahedi

The surname Zahedi is of Persian (Iranian) origin. It is derived from the Persian word "Zaheh" which means 'shadow' or 'shade', reflecting its Middle Eastern roots. In ancient Persia, names often had symbolic meanings and were chosen based on desirable attributes. The Zahedi family name may have been given to someone who provided shade or protection, symbolizing strength and kindness. Over time, as Persians immigrated across the world, the surname has spread, adapting to various cultures and pronunciations. Today, it is primarily found among Iranian diaspora communities in countries such as the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. The Zahedi name remains a testament to the rich history and cultural diversity of ancient Persia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zahedi

The surname Zahedi is primarily distributed across Iran and its diaspora. In Iran, it is most prevalent in the provinces of Tehran, Fars, Isfahan, Gilan, Mazandaran, and Kerman, reflecting a historical concentration of Persian Jews who have carried this name over generations. The Zahedi name can also be found among Iranian Zoroastrians, as well as in other parts of the country with diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds. In addition to Iran, significant populations of individuals bearing the Zahedi surname reside in various countries around the world, particularly in North America, Europe, and Israel, where Iranian immigration has been substantial since the mid-20th century.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zahedi

The surname Zahedi can be found with various spellings and variations due to differences in transliteration and regional dialects. Some of the most common spelling variations include: Zahidi, Zahady, Zahadi, Zahedee, Zahidee, Zahidiy, Zahadey, and Zaheid. These variations may stem from differences in pronunciation or spelling conventions across different cultures and languages. It's important to note that there is no definitive "correct" spelling for this name as it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, the original Persian origin of the name suggests that Zahedi is likely the most authentic form, derived from the Persian word "zahed," which means "wise."

Famous people with the last name Zahedi

Notable individuals with the surname Zahedi include:

1. Cyrus Said Pasha Zahedi (1926-2014): An Iranian politician and diplomat, who served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1979 to 1980 under the Islamic Republic of Iran's first Prime Minister, Shahpour Bakhtiar.

2. Bahram Gholamreza Zahedi (born 1946): A former Iranian professional basketball player and coach. He played for Tehran's Persepolis club and represented the Iran national team, winning the Asian Basketball Championship in 1970 and 1973.

3. Bahram Zahedi (born 1954): An Iranian-American film director, producer, writer, and actor. He is best known for directing movies like "The Daytime Lovers" and "My Stepmom's a Witch."

4. Navid Niavarzezahedeh Zahedi (born 1980): A German-Iranian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for MSV Duisburg in the 3. Liga. He represented the Germany national team at youth levels, but chose to represent Iran at senior level.

Genealogical research on the last name Zahedi

The surname Zahedi originates from Persia (present-day Iran). It is a patronymic name, derived from the given name Zahid, which means 'secluded' or 'retired' in Arabic. The Zahedis are believed to have been part of the ruling class in Persia for several centuries. Notable figures bearing this name include the Qajar dynasty, who ruled Iran from 1794 to 1925, with the last Qajar Shah being Mohammad Ali Shah Qajar. The Zahedi family also played significant roles in politics and the military throughout Iranian history. In more recent times, there have been notable individuals like Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the former President of Iran, who is a descendant of the Zahedis. Today, the Zahedi family can be found across the globe, with large communities in Iran, Iraq, and the United States.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "zahedi"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

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.
Last updated : 15 June 2025