surname
noun
the name that a person has in common with other family members, as distinguished from a first name or given name; family name.
surnames
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pluralof surname.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
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present tense formof surname (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
surnamenounthe name that a person has in common with other family members, as distinguished from a first name or given name; family name.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
While nearly 80% of women in opposite-sex marriages in the U.S. take on their spouse’s last name, others are turning to custom blended surnames, pitch decks or athletic tournaments to settle the debate.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 12, 2026
The Enthusiasm Society, whose members are known by their surnames, recruits Saxberger to join and sets about announcing itself to the world via an evening of performed monologues and poetry.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 6, 2026
For more than a decade, Hannah had been known by two surnames.
From BBC ● Jul. 18, 2026
By meeting others with unfortunate surnames, can Andy Mycock learn to love his name?
From BBC ● Apr. 18, 2026
Spanish influence in the Philippines is evident in the country’s language, religious practices, surnames, and culture.
From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly
