Elias Surname Meaning
The Greek surname Elias (Ηλίας) is a patronymic surname derived directly from the personal name Ilias, the Greek form of Elijah, meaning “My God is Yahweh.” The name entered Greek usage through biblical and Orthodox Christian tradition and became widely used due to the veneration of the Prophet Elias in Greek religious life. In many cases, prominent baptismal names were preserved unchanged and passed down as hereditary surnames, especially when an ancestor was strongly identified by that name within the community. As naming systems formalized, the given name stabilized as a family identifier. Consequently, the surname Elias signifies “the descendant of Elias,” reflecting religious and patronymic origin rather than occupation.
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About Greek Last Names and Surnames
Greek last names, also known as Greek surnames, reflect centuries of history, language, and tradition. This directory explores Greek surnames and meanings, covering both ancient origins and modern family names still in use today. Many Greek last name meanings are connected to occupations, geography, lineage, or personal traits, while others are influenced by classical history and mythology. Use this guide to research heritage, browse family names, and understand how Greek surnames developed over time.
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