Persian Last Names and Meanings

Are you fascinated by the stories names tell? Persian last names are a treasure trove of history, culture, and tradition. From poetic meanings to references to professions and places, every name carries a piece of Iran’s rich heritage. Whether you’re exploring genealogy, looking for inspiration for your child’s name, or just a history buff, you’re in for a treat.

This guide dives into the fascinating origins, practices, and meanings behind Persian surnames. We’ll also cover common, unique, and famous last names with rich backstories.  

The Origin and History of Persian Last Names  

Persian last names evolved over centuries and were largely shaped by Iran’s history, language, and geography. Pre-Islamic names often came from Zoroastrian traditions, while the advent of Islam introduced Arabic influences. Later, interactions with Turkic and Mongol groups further diversified the linguistic and cultural tapestry of names.  

Historically, surnames were uncommon in Persian culture. Family names became widespread after a law passed during Reza Shah Pahlavi’s reign in the early 20th century, which required all citizens to adopt surnames for census and administrative purposes.  

Persian last names often reflect a person’s lineage, occupation, or hometown. You’ll find names rooted in poetry, nature, and even ancient titles. Exploring these names offers a glimpse into the complex and vibrant history of Iran.  

Persian Surname Practices  

Persian surnames are often composed of one or more of the following elements:  

• Patronymic Prefixes/Suffixes (e.g., -ian or -i): Indicating belonging, lineage, or origin. For instance, Ahmadian signifies "descendant of Ahmad," while Shirazi refers to someone from Shiraz.  
• Occupational Names: Many names reflect trades and professions, like Safiayi (associated with clarity or purity).  
• Geographical Names: Names often reference places, like Tehrani ("from Tehran") or Hamedani ("from Hamedan").  
• Descriptive Qualities: Names like Behzadi ("descendant of a good person") might highlight virtues or positive qualities.  

The Most Common Persian Last Names  

Some Persian surnames are widely recognized due to their historical and cultural significance. These names are often passed down through multiple generations, preserving family and regional identities.  

1. Ahmadi – Arabic, meaning "descendant of Ahmad." Ahmad, meaning "praised," is a symbolic and widely respected name in Persian and Arabic cultures.  
2. Ahmad – This Persian name is of Arabic origin and means "highly praised."  
3. Bagheri – Persian, meaning "descendant of Bagher." Derived from Bagher, meaning "deep knowledge and insight."  
4. Behnam – Persian and Iranian, meaning "honorable."  
5. Farahani – Persian, meaning "from Farahan." A geographical name linked to a central Iranian city.  
6. Gul – A common surname and personal name in Persian and Turkish, meaning "rose."  
7. Hasan/Hassan – A Muslim name of Arabic origin, meaning "good" or "handsome."  
8. Khan – Of Turkic and Mongolian origin, this surname was used as a title for military leaders or royalty, popular in Persia (modern Iran).  
9. Masoumi – A Persian or Farsi name meaning "innocence."  
10. Mehri – Persian in origin, derived from the word "Mehr," meaning "lovable."  
11. Mir – A Persian surname, also a variant of the Arabic name "Amir," meaning "prince."  
12. Mirza – Another version of the Persian surname "Mir," meaning "royal prince."  
13. Mousavi – Arabic, meaning "descendant of Musa (Moses)." A name with strong Biblical and cultural resonance in the region.  
14. Rashidi – Of Arabic origin, meaning "thinker" or "wise man."  
15. Reza – Persian and Iranian in origin, meaning "to be pleased," and the Persian form of the Arabic word "Rida." 
16. Shah – A title given to kings and emperors in Western Persia, now known as Iran.  
17. Shirazi – Persian, meaning "from Shiraz." Shiraz is famed for its poetry, wine, and cultural significance in Iran.

Most Popular Persian Last Names With Meanings  

Here’s a curated list of popular Persian surnames and their fascinating meanings. Many of these tell stories of ancestral trades, places of origin, or virtues.  

1. Amini – Persian, meaning "trustworthy or reliable." A name linked to integrity.  
2. Behnam – Persian, meaning "of good name." A surname highlighting positive reputation.  
3. Daneshvar – Persian, meaning "learner or scholar." Symbolizes wisdom and pursuit of knowledge.  
4. Etemadi – Persian, meaning "trust or confidence." Reflects a legacy of reliability.  
5. Golshani – Persian, meaning "of the rose garden." A name inspired by beauty and nature.  
6. Khorshidi – Persian, meaning "related to the sun." A bright and radiant choice.  
7. Mahdavi – Arabic, meaning "related to guidance or leadership." Often connected with spiritual qualities.  
8. Nasseri – Arabic, meaning "descendant of Nasser." Nasser translates to "helper or supporter."  
9. Pahlevani – Persian, meaning "heroic or chivalrous." A name tied to bravery in Persian culture.  
10. Zand – Persian, meaning "related to Zand dynasty." Zand was a ruling dynasty of Iran from 1751-1794.  

Unique Persian Last Names  

If you’re looking for truly distinctive Persian last names, these are rare gems that carry compelling stories.  

1. Azarbaydeli – Persian, meaning "from Azarbaydjan." A northwestern Iranian province brimming with history.  
2. Behroozian – Persian, meaning "descendant of one who prospers." Indicates success and good fortune.  
3. Bukhari – Persian/Arabic, meaning "from Bukhara." Refers to the Persian-speaking city in Uzbekistan.  
4. Firoozmand – Persian, meaning "victory-inspired." A unique surname symbolizing triumph.  
5. Golchehreh – Persian, meaning "rosy cheeks." A poetic nod to beauty.  
6. Ghasemi – Persian, meaning "one who distributes." Derived from the given name Ghasem.  
7. Haji – Arabic, meaning "one who has completed the Hajj to Mecca."  
8. Kazemi – Arabic, meaning "one who controls his anger." Associated with followers of Musa al-Kazim.  
9. Latifi – Persian, meaning "gentle" or "kind."  
10. Madani – Arabic, meaning "urban" or "civilized." Refers to a follower of Madaniyya.  
11. Noorbakhsh – Persian, meaning "bestower of light." Evoking imagery of enlightenment.  
12. Rouhani – Persian, meaning "spiritual" or "cleric."  
13. Sattari – Persian, meaning "one who veils or conceals."  
14. Turan – Persian, meaning "land of the Tur." Refers to an area in Central Asia.  
15. Zadeh – Persian, meaning "son of." A patronymic suffix derived from Zada."
16. Zaman – Arabic, meaning "time." Often used as a Muslim personal name.

Famous Persian Last Names (With English Translations)  

Persian culture boasts a legacy of remarkable individuals whose names have become synonymous with brilliance in literature, art, and innovation.  

1. Hafez – Arabic, meaning "guardian or memorizer." Famed Persian poet known for his timeless Divan-e Hafez. 
2. Khaghani – Persian, meaning "court poet." Known for his eloquent court poetry in Medieval Persia.  
3. Foroughi – Persian, meaning "radiance or enlightenment." Associated with Forough Farrokhzad, an iconic modern Persian poet.  
4. Rumi – Turkish, meaning "from Anatolia." Globally revered Persian mystical poet of The Masnavi.  
5. Saadi – Persian, meaning "felicitous or happy." A celebrated poet from Shiraz, known for Bustan and Gulistan.

Explore the Stories Behind Persian Names  

Persian last names reflect centuries of rich cultural influences, capturing the beauty and depth of Iranian identity. Whether you’re naming a child, deepening your genealogical research, or simply curious, Persian names invite you to uncover their history.  

If you want to discover even more stories behind names, explore our names database and find the perfect inspiration for your family tree or personal project!

What Is a Typical Persian Last Name?  

A typical Persian last name often reflects family heritage, geography, or professions. Common examples include Ahmadi, Hosseini, and Abdollahi, which may indicate religious or ancestral significance. Many Persian surnames are rooted in historical or cultural traditions, reflecting Iran's rich history.

Do Persian Last Names End in Ian?  

Not all Persian last names end in -ian, but those that do are often Armenian in origin. The suffix -ian means "son of" or "descendant of," commonly used in Armenian names. While it’s seen in Persian names due to cultural overlap, most Persian surnames have other endings like -zadeh or -pour.

What Are the Common Parsi Surnames?  

Common Parsi surnames often derive from professions or locations, such as engineer, contractor, doctor, or sethna. These names reflect the Parsi community's unique history in India, blending Persian roots with Indian influences while maintaining distinct identity markers.