Kasabian is an Armenian surname, an alternate transcription of Ղասաբյան (see Ghasabyan). It is derived from the Armenian word ղասաբ (ghasab), meaning "butcher," which itself comes from Arabic. The suffix -yan is a common Armenian patronymic ending, denoting "son of" or "descendant of." Thus, the name originally referred to someone whose ancestor was a butcher. The surname is most widely known outside Armenia through the English rock band Kasabian, formed in Leicester in 1997. The band achieved international fame with albums such as Kasabian (2004), Empire (2006), and For Crying Out Loud (2017). However, the name itself has no direct connection to the band's members—Tom Meighan, Sergio Pizzorno, Chris Edwards, Ian Matthews, and others—none of whom are Armenian. The band reportedly adopted the name after Linda Kasabian, a former member of the Manson Family, whose maiden name was Drouin and whose surname comes from her husband's family, possibly of Armenian descent. In Armenia, the name Kasabian (and its original form Ghasabyan) is present but relatively uncommon. The etymology reflects the historical and cultural influence of Arabic on Armenian, as well as the occupational surname tradition common across many cultures. The suffix -yan is shared by numerous Armenian surnames, such as Hovhannisyan or Sargsyan. Notable Bearers Linda Kasabian (1949–2023): A former member of the Manson Family who testified against the group in the murder trial of Sharon Tate and others. Kasabian (band): English rock band formed in 1997, who brought the name to global recognition. Cultural Significance The name Kasabian has become emblematic of British rock music through the band's success, with multiple albums charting at number one and wins at Q Awards and NME Awards. Yet its origin remains firmly rooted in Armenian language and culture. Meaning: "Butcher" (via Armenian from Arabic) Origin: Armenian Type: Occupational surname Usage: Primarily Armenian, but known globally due to the band