Surname Akinci - Meaning and Origin
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Akinci: What does the surname Akinci mean?
The last name Akinci is a Turkish name of likely Arabic or Persian origin. It literally means “sword-maker” or “blacksmith” in Turkish, referring to someone who specialized in the craft of making swords. In the Ottoman Empire, both occupy a place of honor in Turkish culture as masters of the martial arts and crafts.
The surname is commonly found amongst people of Turkish-Cypriot descent, a diaspora community formed in response to the events of colonial rule during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. In more recent times, it is also found amongst the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and amongst individuals who have moved from Turkey to other parts of Europe and beyond.
In modern-day Turkey, it is one of the most popular given names. It is also widely used by Turks of various ethnic backgrounds living around the world. As it is derived from meaning “sword-maker” or “blacksmith,” it carries with it an air of honor in those who wear the name or know of it, likely representing the skills and tenacity of the original owner of the name. From a symbolic standpoint, the name conveys strength, courage, and an ability to get things done through hard work and determination.
Overall, the surname Akinci is closely intertwined with Turkish culture, its history, and the struggles faced by those who descended from its original bearer. It carries a strong meaning of self-empowerment and respect for the hard work of one’s ancestors, qualities that will continue to be passed down through each generation of Akinci's for years to come.
Order DNA origin analysisAkinci: Where does the name Akinci come from?
The last name Akinci is most commonly found in Turkey and other Turkish-speaking communities. It is believed to have begun in Anatolia, the Asian part of modern Turkey. Akinci is a patronymic surname meaning "son of Akin."
The majority of Akinci families in Turkey are based in the provinces of Kocaeli, Istanbul and Eskisehir, but the surname is also common in the Black Sea, Aegean and central Anatolian regions. It has also spread to other Turkish speaking countries such as Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Syria, Iraq and Bulgaria.
The diaspora of people from Turkey in the 20th century caused Akinci to spread to other countries across Europe, the Middle East and North America. Akinci is today commonly seen in the United Kingdom, French, Canada, United States and Australia. It is also the 15th most common surname in Romania.
Regardless of its current geographical dispersion, Akinci is a surname that has remained popular among the Turkish diaspora over time due to its meaning of “son of Akin”. It is a very recognisable surname and can be easily identified around the world today.
Variations of the surname Akinci
The surname Akinci is most likely of Turkish origin, although there are other likely possibilities as well. It likely comes from the Turkish word "akinci," which means a border guard or an infantryman.
Variants and spellings of Akinci include Akıncı, Akincilar, Akincilar, Akyunic, Akinçi, and Akîncî. Variants are often found in different regions due to various spellings or languages. For instance, the spelling Akinçi is found in Turkey, Croatia, and the United States. The spelling Akinion, is found in Greek communities and the spelling Akyunic is found in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Surnames of the same origin include Akincilar, Akyonic, Akinyon, and Akincilar. These surnames often share the same roots as the Akinci surname. For example, Akincilar is derived from the Turkish term for border guard or infantryman. Akyonic likely comes from the Turkish phrase "aki yon," which means face. Akinyon comes from the Turkish word "akina," which means "the coming." And, Akincilar likely comes from the Turkish word "akincili," which means that the person is a guard or sentry.
All these surnames likely originate from a Turkish ancestor, who was a border guard or an infantryman in some capacity. These variations in names provide insight into the cultural and linguistic origins of the surname. Although Akinci may be the more commonly used today, understanding the other forms and variations can help to add to an individual’s knowledge of their family tree.
Famous people with the name Akinci
- Ahmet Akinci: Ahmet Akinci is a well-known Turkish politician, serving as the mayor of Istanbul from 1994 to 1998. He was a two-time parliamentarian, and is recognized for his staunch fight for human rights.
- Ozlem Akinci: Ozlem Akinci is a Turkish actress and filmmaker from Istanbul. She has had a successful career in both, appearing in films such as Yol and Wounded Love.
- Can Suphi Akinci: Can Suphi Akinci is a Turkish violist. He has performed with the Chamber Ensemble of the State Conservatory of Istanbul and the Saray Symphony Orchestra. He is also a professor at Mimar Sinan University of Fine Arts in Istanbul.
- Hakan Akinci: Hakan Akinci is a Turkish TV presenter from Istanbul. He has hosted various talk shows on Turkish media networks such as Show TV and Fox TV.
- Ahu Akinci: Ahu Akinci is a Turkish fashion designer and entrepreneur. She is the founder and creative director of the Turkish fashion label, Lefkoşa.
- Hasan Akinci: Hasan Akinci is a Turkish military officer and politician. He served as the chief of the Turkish General Staff, and has been a member of the Republican People's Party for several years.
- Metin Akinci: Metin Akinci is a Turkish actor and filmmaker. He has starred in films such as The Price of Love and The King's Will.