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Last Name Zeneli

What is the origin of the last name Zeneli?

The last name Zeneli is of Albanian origin. It is derived from the Turkish word "zenel," which means soldier or warrior. The surname likely originated from an ancestor who was a soldier or warrior in the Ottoman Empire. Today, the Zeneli surname is most commonly found in Albania and Kosovo.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zeneli

The meaning and origin of the last name Zeneli

The surname Zeneli is of Albanian origin and is believed to have originated as a patronymic name, derived from the given name Zenel, which means "generous" or "noble" in Albanian. It is a common surname in Albania and among Albanian communities in Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Montenegro. The Zeneli family name is likely to have been used to identify ancestors or descendants of someone with the name Zenel, with the "-i" suffix indicating "son of" or "descendant of" in Albanian. Over time, the surname Zeneli has been passed down through generations, signifying a family's connection to their heritage and ancestry. Today, individuals with the surname Zeneli can be found in various countries around the world, often retaining a strong sense of pride in their Albanian roots.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zeneli

The last name Zeneli is predominantly found in Albania, particularly in the northern region of Mirdita. The Zeneli family has historically been known to originate from this area and has strong roots in the region. However, there are also individuals bearing the surname Zeneli in neighboring countries such as Kosovo and Macedonia, suggesting a wider distribution within the Balkan region. In recent years, there has been a dispersion of the Zeneli surname to other parts of Europe and beyond, likely due to migration and the search for better opportunities. Overall, while the concentration of the Zeneli surname may still be highest in Albania, its geographic distribution is expanding, reflecting the changing dynamics of modern society.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zeneli

The last name Zeneli may be spelled in different variations, including Zenneli, Xhenneli, Zeeneli, Zineli, Zenelly, and Zenelii. These variations can be influenced by regional dialects, transliterations, or personal preferences. Despite the different spellings, all variations refer to the same surname and are common among individuals of Albanian descent. The surname Zeneli derives from the Albanian word "zenel," which means "young olive tree." It is a popular last name in Albania and among the Albanian diaspora worldwide. The variations in spelling do not change the meaning or significance of the surname Zeneli, which represents a strong connection to Albanian heritage and identity.

Famous people with the last name Zeneli

One of the most famous individuals with the last name Zeneli is Florent Zeneli, a talented Albanian footballer who currently plays as a midfielder for SD Eibar in La Liga. Known for his technical skills and versatility on the field, Zeneli has gained recognition for his impressive performances and has been a key player for both his club and the Albanian national team. Another notable figure with the surname Zeneli is Valon Zeneli, a successful Swedish entrepreneur and founder of the popular gaming company Zeneli Corporation. Valon Zeneli has made a name for himself in the business world with his innovative ideas and strategic vision, becoming a prominent figure in the gaming industry. Both Florent and Valon Zeneli have brought honor to their family name through their achievements in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Zeneli

The surname Zeneli is of Albanian origin and is believed to be derived from the personal name Zenel or Zeneli. This name is commonly found in regions such as Albania, Kosovo, and Macedonia. In genealogical research, individuals with the surname Zeneli can trace their ancestry back to these areas, where the name has been passed down through generations. The Zeneli family likely has a rich history and may have connections to notable figures or events in Albanian history. By exploring records such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and census data, individuals can uncover more information about their Zeneli ancestors and their place in their family tree. Researching the Zeneli surname can provide insight into one's heritage and help individuals better understand their roots within the Albanian community.

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 : 11 April 2025

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