yildiz

Yildiz (Turkish: yıldız) is a Turkish word meaning "star" and is used in literal and figurative senses. As a common noun it denotes astronomical stars and, by extension, celebrities or outstanding individuals. The term is frequently transliterated as "Yildiz" in contexts that omit the Turkish dotted-ı character.

As a personal name, Yildiz appears as both a given name and a surname in Turkey and among Turkish-speaking communities. It is chosen for its positive connotations of brightness and distinction. Variants and related names occur in neighboring cultures influenced by Turkish language and Ottoman heritage.

Yildiz also features in many place names and institutions. Prominent examples in Istanbul include Yıldız Park, a historic urban park, and Yıldız Palace, an Ottoman imperial residence. Yıldız Technical University is a major public university with campuses in the city. The word is widely used for neighborhoods, parks, schools, and cultural venues across Turkey and in diasporic communities.

In commerce and popular culture, Yildiz appears in company and brand names. A notable corporate use is Yıldız Holding, a large Turkish conglomerate active in food and consumer goods; the name is also common among smaller businesses, media titles, and sports clubs. Its broad usage reflects the term’s positive, recognizable symbolism in Turkish language and culture.