family name

noun

1. the hereditary surname of a family.

2. a given name frequently used in a family.

family name

noun

1. a surname, esp when regarded as representing the family honour

2. a first or middle name frequently used in a family, often originally a surname

Word History and Origins

Origin of family name¹

First recorded in 1690–1700

Example Sentences

Ajwad, 45, who is originally from Meknes and asked that his family name be withheld for fear of retribution, said some Sahrawis "don't want autonomy" under Morocco, because that would "impose restrictions" on their freedoms.

Read more on Barron's

They have family names and their own personal ambitions at stake.

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But there were clues: A tattoo with a family name.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

And presenting Black characters whose family names predate the Declaration of Independence is practically unheard of.

Read more on Salon

Our last names got lost, and people just thought of the band names as our family names, like the Ramones!

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• last name