ATTIAS
Attias
Attias is a surname of Sephardic Jewish origin, commonly found among Jewish communities in the United Kingdom. The name is believed to have originated from the Hebrew word "Attiyah," meaning gift or gift of God.
Etymology and History
The Attias surname can be traced back to the times of the Spanish Inquisition when many Sephardic Jews were forced to flee Spain and Portugal to escape persecution. These Jewish immigrants settled in various parts of Europe and North Africa, including the United Kingdom. Over time, the surname Attias became established among these communities.
Distribution and Frequency
The Attias surname is relatively rare, with concentrated populations found in areas with significant Jewish communities such as London, Manchester, and other major cities in the UK. The name has also spread to other countries where Sephardic Jews settled, such as Israel, France, and the United States.
Notable Bearers
- Daniel Attias - An American television director known for his work on popular series such as The Sopranos and Homeland.
- Rachel Attias - A British academic and researcher specializing in Middle Eastern studies.
In Popular Culture
The Attias surname has made occasional appearances in literature and media, often as a nod to the Sephardic Jewish heritage of the character or author using the name.
There are approximately 77 people named Attias in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Attias.
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.