Iatrou Surname Meaning

The Greek surname Iatrou (Ιατρού) is an occupational surname derived from the word iatrós (ιατρός), meaning “doctor” or “physician.” It originally referred to the family of a man who practiced medicine, healing, or folk remedies, a role that held significant respect in traditional Greek society. The form Iatrou represents the genitive case, meaning “of the doctor,” which is commonly preserved in Greek surnames and especially in female or family lineage forms. As occupational identifiers became hereditary, the reference to the profession remained embedded in the name long after the original role may have ended. Consequently, the surname Iatrou signifies “the family of the physician,” reflecting professional heritage and social standing.