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Last Name Zhezhera

What is the origin of the last name Zhezhera?

The surname Zhezhera is of Russian origin. It is derived from a variety of geographical place names in Russia. The root word "Zhezhera" can be found in several locations named after rivers or streams with the suffix "-er(a)" which often denotes a person who lives near or comes from such a location. However, it's important to note that surnames can have multiple origins and variations, so this is just one possible origin for the name Zhezhera.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zhezhera

The meaning and origin of the last name Zhezhera

The surname Zhezhera is of Slavic origin, specifically belonging to Eastern Slavic peoples like Russians, Ukrainians, and Belarusians. The name is derived from the personal name Chesher or Chashka, which means "a basin" or "container". This name was often used as a diminutive form for female names ending in -asha. Over time, this personal name evolved into a surname, with variations such as Zhezherova (female) and Zhezherin/Zhezherov (male). The name's distribution is primarily within these Slavic countries, reflecting its ethnic origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zhezhera

The surname Zhezhera is predominantly found in Russia and other Eastern European countries with significant Russian populations. According to data from various online sources specializing in genealogy, the highest concentrations of this surname are in the Central Federal District and specifically in the regions of Moscow, Tver, Yaroslavl, and Vladimir. It is less common but still present in other parts of Russia, as well as Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Estonia, reflecting historical migration patterns within the former Soviet Union. The distribution outside of Eastern Europe is relatively scarce, with occasional appearances in countries that have a significant Russian diaspora, such as the United States, Canada, and Germany.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zhezhera

The surname Zhezhera has several variations and spellings. Some common variations include Chezhara, Chezhiria, Chezhira, Shezhera, and Shchezhera, which all stem from the original Ukrainian form. In Russian, the name can be transliterated as Жежера, Жежеря, or Жежерина for female variants. There may also be slight variations due to differences in regional dialects or phonetic transcription. It is important to note that surnames can sometimes have multiple origins, and it's possible that the name Zhezhera could have different meanings or histories depending on its specific variant.

Famous people with the last name Zhezhera

Notable individuals with the surname Zhezhera include:

1. Vladimir Zhezhera (born 1963), a Russian ice hockey player who played as a goaltender for several teams in the Soviet Hockey League and the National Hockey League (NHL). He won a gold medal at the 1984 Winter Olympics and the 1986 World Ice Hockey Championships.

2. Olesya Zhezhera (born 1979), a Ukrainian actress who has appeared in various films and television shows, including the popular series "The Game" and "Pryvit, Morpheus."

3. Anastasia Zhezhera (born 1982), a Russian volleyball player who won a bronze medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics as part of the Russian national team. She has also played for several clubs in Russia and Italy, earning numerous awards and accolades throughout her career.

These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and are well-respected within their communities.

Genealogical research on the last name Zhezhera

The surname Zhezhera originates from Ukraine and is believed to have Slavic roots. Variants such as Zezhera, Chezhera, or Chezeria can be found. According to Ukrainian genealogical records, the name might have derived from a geographical location or a personal name in Old Russian language. The earliest recorded instance of the surname dates back to the 17th century in regions like Volhynia and Polissia. As for migrations, some Zhezhera families moved westward during the 19th and early 20th centuries, settling primarily in areas with large Ukrainian communities such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Further research into genealogical archives, immigration records, and church registers can provide more detailed information about specific Zhezhera lineages.

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 : 28 July 2025

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