ZACHARIOU
Zachariou
Origin and Meaning: Zachariou is a British surname of Greek origin, derived from the first name Zacharias or Zachary. The name Zacharias comes from the Hebrew name Zechariah, meaning "God has remembered".
History: The surname Zachariou is relatively rare in Britain and is most commonly found among families with Greek heritage. It likely entered the country through Greek immigrants who settled in the UK, particularly in the 20th century.
Distribution: The surname Zachariou is concentrated in Greater London, particularly in areas with significant Greek communities such as Islington and Camden. However, bearers of this surname can be found across the UK.
Famous Individuals:
- Nikos Zachariou: A renowned Greek-British architect known for his innovative designs and sustainable practices.
- Sophia Zachariou: An up-and-coming British-Greek actress making waves in the London theatre scene.
Coat of Arms: The Zachariou family may have their unique coat of arms, typically featuring symbols and colours that hold historical or family significance.
Trivia: In Greek culture, the name Zacharias is often associated with the biblical figure of Zechariah, a prominent figure in the Old Testament.
References:
- "The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland" by Patrick Hanks, Richard Coates, and Peter McClure.
- Reaney, P.H., Wilson, R.M. "A Dictionary of English Surnames".
There are approximately 97 people named Zachariou in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Zachariou.