100 Turkish Last Names or Surnames & Their Meanings

Surnames or family names are often considered a sign of pride as they reflect families’ roots and lineage. Turkish people make up a good proportion of the European continent and are very well-known for their outstanding Turkish surnames, which often carry rich cultural, historical, and sometimes religious significance. After the introduction of the Surname Law on the 21st of June, Turkish people started wearing official surnames, unlike the time during the Ottoman Empire when people had titles that defined their profession, social status, or role within the community. General people also used the name of their village, words from the Holy Quran, or the head of the family as their surname. Here in this article, we present you with the top 80 Turkish surnames or family names along with their meanings, origins, and fascinating history.

Common Turkish Surnames

Many Turkish families carry surnames that reflect rich traditions, history, and cultural identity. These common Turkish surnames have been passed down through generations, highlighting the connections between heritage and everyday life.

1. Akbas

Akbas is one of the most common Turkish family names and literally means ‘whitehead.’ It often symbolizes purity and clarity, reflecting a sense of honor and respect within the family lineage.

2. Aksoy

This Turkish surname is made up of the words ‘Ak’ and ‘soy’, meaning “white” and “lineage”, respectively.

3. Arslan

The surname has Mongol, Turkic and Persian roots. This last name translates to “lion”.

4. Ataturk

was one of the most ancient and one of the first last names to be used in Turkey. It means “the father of the Turks”.

5. Avci

Avci is one of the common Turkish last names and has Turkish origins. The name means “hunter”, which is a nice surname to have.

6. Aydin

Aydin is another common Turkish last name which stands for intelligent or intellectual.

7. Bulut

Bulut is a Turkish surname that means ‘cloud’ in Turkic. It often conveys a sense of freedom, vastness, and serenity, symbolizing a family with a lofty or open-minded spirit.

8. Cetin

Cetin is a popular Turkish last name that means ‘tough’ or ‘robust.’ It reflects strength, resilience, and determination, often symbolizing a family known for its enduring spirit and steadfast character.

9. Demir

Demir is a Turkish surname that means ‘iron,’ traditionally referring to an ironworker. It symbolizes strength, durability, and hard work, often reflecting a family known for its resilience and craftsmanship.

10. Demirci

Similar to Demir, Demirci is a Turkish surname that means ‘blacksmith.’ It represents skill, strength, and dedication, reflecting a family associated with craftsmanship and hard work.

11. Dogan

Dogan is a Turkish surname that means ‘hawk.’ It symbolizes sharp vision, courage, and freedom, often representing a family with a strong and noble spirit.

12. Erdogan

Turkish surname that means “warrior”. The current President of Turkey, Tayyip Erdogan adorns this surname.

13. Kartal

Kartal is a striking Turkish surname that means ‘eagle.’ It conveys power, vision, and freedom, symbolizing a family with a bold and soaring spirit.

14. Kaya

Kaya is a short and meaningful Turkish last name that means ‘rock.’ It represents strength, stability, and resilience, reflecting a family with a solid and enduring character.

15. Kemal

Kemal stems from a Persian origin and means ‘beauty’ and ‘perfection.’ It signifies elegance, excellence, and refinement, often associated with a family known for grace and distinction.

16. Kilic

Kilic is a Turkish surname that stands for ‘sword.’ It symbolizes bravery, protection, and honor, reflecting a family with a strong and courageous legacy.

17. Koc

Koc is a Turkish surname adapted from Polish, where it means ‘blanket,’ but in Turkish it means ‘little.’ It often signifies humility and warmth, highlighting a family with a gentle and caring nature.

18. Kucuk

Kucuk literally means ‘little’ or ‘tiny’ in Turkish. It can convey endearment, modesty, and approachability, reflecting a family with a humble and close-knit character.

19. Köse

Köse is a well-known Turkish surname that means ‘beardless.’ Historically, it might indicate youthfulness or a distinctive appearance, reflecting a family with a unique or recognizable trait.

20. Macar

The name is Turkish but is used by Hungarians who settled in Turkey, many centuries ago. The surname also means “Hungarian”.

21. Osman

Osman is a Turkish surname with Arabic origins, meaning ‘tender youth.’ It symbolizes vitality, freshness, and new beginnings, often reflecting a family associated with energy, growth, and promise.

22. Ozdemir

A very popular last name in Turkey, it means “pure iron”. The origins can also be traced back to Turkish culture.

23. Ozuturk

Ozuturk is a unique Turkish surname that means ‘pure Turk.’ It conveys pride, heritage, and strong cultural identity, often representing a family deeply connected to Turkish roots and traditions.

24. Polat

Polat has Persian roots. The meaning of this surname is metal or strong. The meaning signifies the strong and supreme power of the last name.

25. Sahin

Sahin is a Turkish surname inspired by a living creature and means ‘falcon.’ It symbolizes sharp vision, agility, and courage, often reflecting a family known for strength, vigilance, and a soaring spirit.

26. Sakarya

Sakarya is a habitational surname which comes from an important name in Turkish history. It is the name of the river, Sakarya river, which was an important place during the Turkish War of Independence.

27. Sydin

Sydin is a stylish Turkish surname meaning ‘The Enlightened One.’ It reflects wisdom, clarity, and insight, often representing a family known for knowledge and guidance.

28. Ulusoy

Ulusoy is an ancient Turkish surname meaning ‘supreme lineage.’ It symbolizes prestige, honor, and a distinguished heritage, highlighting a family with deep-rooted traditions.

29. Yavuz

Yavuz is a strong and memorable Turkish surname meaning ‘ferocious’ or ‘resolute.’ It conveys determination, courage, and steadfastness, often associated with a family of bold and unwavering character.

30. Yildirim

Yildirim is a stylish Turkish last name meaning ‘lightning’ or ‘thunder.’ It symbolizes power, speed, and energy, reflecting a family with a dynamic and striking presence.

31. Yilmaz

Yilmaz comes from a given name meaning ‘dauntless.’ It signifies bravery, resilience, and unyielding spirit, often representing a family known for strength and perseverance.

32. Yildiz

Yildiz is a charming Turkish surname meaning ‘rising star.’ It conveys brilliance, hope, and ambition, often symbolizing a family with shining potential and inspiring presence.

Popular Turkish Last Names

Turkish last names tell fascinating stories of heritage, culture, and family pride. Our carefully curated Turkish family names list showcases the most popular and meaningful surnames, revealing the rich history behind each name.

1. Aga

Aga is a variant of the original surname Agha, meaning ‘leader’ or ‘ruler.’ It symbolizes authority, respect, and guidance, often reflecting a family known for leadership, influence, and a commanding presence.

2. Agha

This is an ancient last name which was used in Turkey. Although not very common now, it means “leader of the family”.

3. Arap

Arap is a Turkish surname derived from the word ‘Arab.’ It reflects cultural or regional identity and may signify historical ties or ancestry linked to the Arab world.

4. Asker

Asker is an elegant Turkish surname meaning ‘soldier.’ It symbolizes bravery, discipline, and loyalty, often representing a family with a proud and courageous heritage.

5. Aslan

Aslan is a variant of Arslan, both meaning ‘lion.’ It conveys strength, courage, and leadership, often reflecting a family known for bravery and noble character.

6. Aydem

Aydem is a Turkish surname meaning ‘bright’ or ‘enlightened.’ It represents wisdom, clarity, and inspiration, often associated with a family of insight and positivity.

7. Badem

Badem is a Turkish surname taken from the word ‘almond.’ It symbolizes nourishment, growth, and sweetness, often reflecting a family with warmth, charm, and vitality.

8. Baig

Although this is an old name, it is still used around the world amongst many families. It is taken from the Turkish Ottoman title, “Beg” which means “lord” or “master of the family”.

9. Balik

Balik is a Turkish surname inspired by a living creature and means ‘fish.’ It symbolizes adaptability, abundance, and freedom, often reflecting a family connected to water or a flowing, flexible nature.

10. Bardakci

Bardakci comes from the Turkish word ‘Bardak,’ meaning ‘glass,’ and translates to ‘glassmaker.’ It represents craftsmanship, precision, and artistry, often associated with a family skilled in delicate and creative work.

11. Barak

Barak is a Turkish surname meaning ‘shaggy-haired.’ It conveys uniqueness and distinction, often reflecting a family with a notable or striking appearance and strong individuality.

12. Baris

Baris is a Turkish surname derived from the given name meaning ‘peace.’ It symbolizes harmony, calmness, and diplomacy, often representing a family committed to unity and goodwill.

13. Bata

Bata has roots in both Arabic and Turkish culture and means ‘duck.’ It conveys adaptability, resourcefulness, and a connection to nature, often reflecting a family with resilience and versatility.

14. Baran

Baran means ‘rain.’ It conveys renewal, growth, and life-giving qualities, often reflecting a family bringing vitality and freshness.

15. Beg

Beg is a Turkish surname denoting a high title of respect. It signifies authority, influence, and leadership, often associated with families of power and distinguished social standing.

16. Begum

This surname has Persian roots from the word “Beygom”, which means “madam” or “lady”. It was used as a royal title for Muslim females in Central and South Asia.

17. Binci

Binci is an occupational Turkish surname meaning ‘horse rider.’ It reflects skill, agility, and a connection to equestrian traditions, often representing a family known for discipline and mastery in riding.”

18. Burakgazi

The roots of this name are unknown, but it seems to be a combination of the given name “Burak”, which refers to the creature that carried the Prophet and “Ghazi”, an Arabic word for “warrior”.

19. Ceylant

This is a cool Turkish surname to have and it is taken from the Persian word “Caran”. The meaning of the name is “Gazelle”.

20. Durmaz

Durmaz is derived from the Turkish word ‘Durmak,’ meaning ‘to persist.’ It symbolizes determination, resilience, and unwavering spirit, often representing a family known for their perseverance and steadfast nature.

21. Ekmekci

Ekmekci is a Turkish surname meaning ‘baker.’ It reflects warmth, nourishment, and hard work, often associated with a family dedicated to providing and caring for their community.

22. Ersoy

This ancient last name has roots in Turkish culture as well and means “descendants or ancestors of soldiers”.

23. Gultekin

This name is derived from the second Kaganate of Turkey, Kul Tigin. It is considered to be one of the ancient last names in Turkey.

24. Katirci

The name comes from the Turkish word for “mule” and it is a name for a person transporting something by a mule.

25. Kundakci

It comes from the Turkish word “Kundak”, which means “stock” or “the wooden part of a rifle”.

26. Kunt

An ancient last name, it is derived from a mountain range in Asia where the Turks are believed to have originated. The last name means “solid”.

27. Malas

Malas is a Turkish family name meaning ‘trowel.’ It symbolizes craftsmanship, hard work, and precision, often reflecting a family with strong ties to building or construction traditions.

28. Mataraci

Mataraci is an occupational Turkish surname for someone who makes bottles or flasks. It represents skill, diligence, and practicality, highlighting a family associated with artisanal craftsmanship.

29. Mogul

Mogul or Mügül stems from the Persian word ‘Moghol,’ referring to Mongols. It conveys historical significance, strength, and resilience, often symbolizing a family with proud ancestral roots.

30. Nacar

Nacar is a Turkish variant of the Arabic name ‘Najjar,’ meaning ‘carpenter.’ It reflects skill, creativity, and hard work, often representing a family connected to craftsmanship and building traditions.

31. Onder

Onder comes from the Turkish first name Önder, meaning ‘leader.’ It symbolizes guidance, authority, and vision, often associated with a family recognized for leadership and influence.

32. Ozan

Ozan originates from an old Turkish first name and refers to a poet or bard. It represents creativity, expression, and storytelling, often reflecting a family with a rich cultural or artistic heritage.

33. Ozturk

Ozturk is a unique Turkish surname meaning ‘pure’ or ‘core Turk.’ It conveys pride, heritage, and national identity, often representing a family deeply rooted in Turkish culture and traditions.

34. Pasha

An old surname, this is used across the planet by many Muslims. It was used as an honorary title in the military.

35. Peynirci

Peynirci is a unique Turkish surname that translates to ‘cheese.’ It symbolizes nourishment, tradition, and community, often reflecting a family connected to culinary arts or local trade.

36. Reis

Reis stems from the Greek name Reizis and means ‘chief’ or ‘boss.’ It conveys authority, leadership, and respect, often representing a family known for guidance and influence in society.

37. Sadik

Sadik comes from the given name Sadiq, meaning ‘true’ in Arabic. It symbolizes honesty, loyalty, and integrity, often reflecting a family known for trustworthiness and strong moral values.

38. Sari

Sari (pronounced Sa-Ru) is a Turkish surname derived from a descriptive term meaning ‘yellow.’ It often signifies brightness, warmth, and cheerfulness, representing a family with a vibrant and sunny character.

39. Şimşek

Şimşek is certainly a unique name which means lightning in Turkish. Many people use this as a first name as well.

40. Solak

Solak is a Turkish surname that refers to a left-handed person. It symbolizes uniqueness, individuality, and distinctiveness, often representing a family known for standing out or having a special skill set.

41. Soydan

Mixing two words “Soy” and “Dan”, the name translates to someone who has an excellent lineage.

42. Tabak

Tabak is an occupational surname in Turkey belonging to people who work in a tannery.

43. Tata

Tata is a humrous preposition as a nickname for a stammerer. In Arabic and Turkish, people mean ta ta as stammer.

44. Turan

Turan is a Turkish surname derived from a historical region in Central Asia. It reflects heritage, cultural pride, and a connection to ancestral lands, often representing a family with deep-rooted history.

45. Tiryaki

Tiryaki is a Turkish surname possibly derived from a nickname meaning ‘stubborn.’ It symbolizes determination, persistence, and strong-willed character, often reflecting a family known for resilience and tenacity.

46. Uzun

Uzun is a Turkish surname meaning ‘long’ or ‘tall.’ It represents stature, presence, and prominence, often associated with a family known for their notable or commanding appearance.

47. Younan

Younan is a Turkish and Iranian surname that serves as an ethnic name for a Greek. It reflects cultural identity, historical connections, and cross-regional heritage, often representing a family with rich ancestral ties.

48. Zorlu

Zorlu is a popular Turkish surname meaning ‘strong’ and ‘powerful.’ It conveys resilience, courage, and determination, often representing a family known for overcoming challenges with strength and perseverance.

Unique Turkish Last Names

Many rare Turkish last names are tied to elements of nature, history, or community life. These uncommon surnames not only honor Turkish heritage but also add a distinct touch of identity.

1. Akdoğan

Akdoğan Means “white falcon.” It represents strength, freedom, and keen vision, often symbolizing a noble and courageous spirit.

2. Bozkurt

Bozkurt Means “gray wolf,” a national symbol in Turkish culture. It embodies bravery, independence, and leadership qualities.

3. Canbulat

Can be interpreted as “brave soul” or “valiant spirit.” It reflects courage, determination, and a fearless nature.

4. Dalkıran

Literally means “branch breaker.” It symbolizes power, resilience, and the ability to overcome obstacles in life.

5. Erciyes

Named after Mount Erciyes, a famous Turkish mountain. It represents majesty, strength, and the enduring power of nature.

6. Fırat

Refers to the Euphrates River. It symbolizes life, continuity, prosperity, and the flow of energy through generations.

7. Gökpınar

Gökpınar Means “sky spring” or “heavenly spring.” It reflects purity, natural beauty, and a sense of serenity.

8. Hasoğlu

Literally means “son of Has.” It indicates noble lineage, respect, and a strong connection to family heritage.

9. Karakuş

Karakuş Means “black bird.” It symbolizes intelligence, mystery, and adaptability in various life situations.

10. Laçin

Refers to a deep blue or azure color. It represents elegance, calmness, and a refined personality.

11. Mengü

Mengü Means “eternal” or “immortal.” It reflects timelessness, enduring legacy, and lasting significance.

12. Narin

Narin Means “delicate” or “graceful.” It embodies elegance, sensitivity, and refined beauty.

13. Orhun

Named after the Orhun River and inscriptions. It represents history, wisdom, and cultural heritage.

14. Pamuk

Literally means “cotton.” It symbolizes softness, purity, simplicity, and gentleness.

15. Ramazan

Named after the holy month of Ramadan. It signifies spirituality, devotion, and religious tradition.

16. Sancak

Sancak Means “flag” or “banner.” It represents honor, unity, leadership, and pride in one’s identity.

17. Tekindor

Can be interpreted as “steadfast” or “faithful protector.” It reflects loyalty, reliability, and unwavering commitment.

18. Uluğ

Uluğ Means “great” or “magnificent.” It symbolizes grandeur, respect, and remarkable strength.

19. Yeşilırmak

Literally means “green river.” It reflects vitality, abundance, and a deep connection with nature.

20. Zambak

Zambak Means “lily.” It represents purity, elegance, beauty, and refinement in character.

FAQs

1. When did Turkish people start using official surnames?

Official surnames were introduced after the Surname Law on June 21, 1934, as part of Turkey’s modernization reforms. Before this law, people were identified by titles, professions, or personal attributes rather than family names. This change helped standardize identity records, strengthened family heritage, and promoted a sense of national unity. It also allowed individuals to legally pass surnames to their descendants, preserving cultural and familial lineage.

2. Can a Turkish surname indicate social status or profession?

Historically, some Turkish surnames were derived from professions, leadership roles, or social standing, reflecting an individual’s position within society. For example, titles like “Ağa” (landowner) or “Bey” (chieftain) were sometimes incorporated into surnames. Others were based on occupation, such as “Demirci” (blacksmith) or “Çoban” (shepherd). These names served not only as identifiers but also as markers of respect, responsibility, and family reputation.

Turkish last names sound super unique and out of the ordinary. Many of these last names might be unheard of but that’s what makes them stand out, no matter where you are. Be sure to choose the right last name, as it is something that will go down in the history books for future generations to come.

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