Surname Kadiri - Meaning and Origin

Kadiri: What does the surname Kadiri mean?

The last name Kadiri is a derivative of the old Arabic word "Kadir," which means great power or might. Because of this, the surname Kadiri is often associated with strength.

The Kadiri family name is derived from the Islamic religious term “Kadiriyya,” which refers to the Prophet Muhammed’s calling. This term is often used to describe the spiritual asceticism that is associated with the Islamic prophet, and is seen as a path to a greater understanding of one’s faith.

Much like many other Arabic words, the term “Kadiriyya” carries a sense of reverence and divine wisdom. Therefore, the surname Kadiri carries with it a signification of strength, success and wisdom. This is why many who bear the name Kadiri are considered to be dignified, responsible and honorable individuals.

The surname is prevalent not only throughout the Arab world, but is also seen as far away as Africa and India, as a result of the early Islamic diaspora.

The Kadiri surname is steeped in history and is a true testament to the strength and power that it represents. It has become a sign of respect and admiration over the centuries and is still very much revered in many cultures today.

Kadiri: Where does the name Kadiri come from?

The last name Kadiri is commonly found in West Africa today. Specifically, it is most often seen in the countries of Nigeria, Cameroon, and Sudan.

The origin of the name Kadiri is believed to be derived from the Yoruba language of Nigeria. Kadiri is believed to mean “First born," as the root of the word is kadi, meaning "first." It is a very popular surname among the Yoruba people.

The Kadiris are a well-known family in Nigeria, where they are commonly found in the Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and Kwara states. In Cameroon, the Kadiris are found in the Northwest, Southwest, and Central provinces. In Sudan, Kadiris can be found in Khartoum and Nile River states.

Those with the surname Kadiri tend to be of an upper-middle class social status in all these countries. In Cameroon, they are often influential business owners, while in Nigeria they may be wealthy landowners and in Sudan they might hold positions of relative political power.

Beyond West Africa, Kadiris have also emigrated to Europe and North America in recent decades. Kadiris can now be found in diasporic communities in the United Kingdom, United States, France, and Canada.

Overall, the last name Kadiri is most commonly associated with West Africa today, with dense populations located in Nigeria, Cameroon, and Sudan. Kadiris can also be found scattered beyond these countries, in wider diasporic communities around the globe.

Variations of the surname Kadiri

The surname Kadiri is a South Indian surname derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Kadri’ meaning ‘powerful’. Variants of this surname are commonly seen in coastal areas of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka with a fewet being found elsewhere in India. Other variants of the same origin are Kadari, Kadariya, Kaderry, Kadir, Kadira, Kadiriya, Kadri, Kadriya, Kadry, and Kadrya.

In coastal Karnataka, the surname Kadiri is seen in various spelling variations including Kardari, Kardiri, Karadi, Karady, Karadi, Karathi, Kardhiri, and Kardhirya. The main surnames derived from this are Cardri, Caradi, and Cardhiri.

In Tamil Nadu, this surname is most commonly seen as Kadiri or Kadiriyar. Several spellings are seen in both the written and spoken forms such as Kadiri, Kadri, Kaderi, Kadry, and Kadary. Other variants of the surname are Kadirial, Kadiripuram, and Kadire.

Surnames of the same origin include Kadam, Kadur, Kadarya, Kadge, etc. Some common surnames anglicised to this are Kadry, Kadare, and Kadar.

In addition to these variants, there are also many surnames derived from this which are found within various groups of people and communities in India, particularly in coastal Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Examples include Kadri, Kattadi, and Khanadri.

All of the surnames mentioned above clearly have the same origin and are variations of the same surname, Kadiri. This is likely due to the fact that the surname Kadiri is of ancient Sanskrit origin and was most likely spread to various parts of India by migrating families and communities.

Famous people with the name Kadiri

• Paul Kadiri: actor, musician, producer, and songwriter
• Stella Kadiri: Nigerian numa and gospel songwriter
• Joke Kadiri: Cameroonian Actress
• Julius Kadiri: Nigerian actor, director, and producer
• Chinonso Kadiri: Nigerian Apala musician
• Peter Kadiri: Indian gospel singer
• Gowon Kadiri: Nigerian acting idol
• Abel Kadiri: Nigerian actor
• Kindness Kadiri: Nigerian actress
• Dolapo Kadiri: Nigerian movie producer
• Lanre Kadiri: Nigerian writer and entrepreneur
• Banksy Kadiri: Nigerian artist
• Abidemi Kadiri: Nigerian actress
• John Kayode Kadiri: Nigerian professor and board chairman
• Nosa Kadiri: Nigerian media entrepreneur
• Bob Kadiri: Nigerian movie director
• Adewale Kadiri: Nigerian cinematographer
• Mfon Ebong Kadiri: Nigerian actress
• Ikechukwu Kadiri: Nigerian actor
• Kiva Kadiri: Nigerian rapper and songwriter

Other surnames

Kadir