Zafeiridis Surname Meaning

The Greek surname Zafeiridis (Ζαφειρίδης) is a patronymic surname derived from Zafeiris (Ζαφείρης), meaning “sapphire,” from the Greek word zafeiri (ζαφείρι). Names derived from precious stones were common in Greek naming tradition and often symbolized value, beauty, or spiritual significance. The suffix -idis (-ίδης) is characteristic of northern Greek and Asia Minor naming traditions and indicates descent. As surnames became hereditary through church and civil documentation, the patronymic structure remained fixed across generations. Consequently, the surname Zafeiridis signifies “the descendant of Zafeiris,” reflecting patronymic lineage rooted in descriptive personal naming tradition rather than occupation.