family name

American  

noun

1. the hereditary surname of a family.

2. a given name frequently used in a family.

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family name British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of family name

First recorded in 1690–1700

Compare meaning

How does family-name compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• given name vs. family name

Example Sentences

So for me to be able to get it was a good feeling for everyone in that journey - that my family name can have that senior cap to it.

From BBC

At the Islam Qala crossing point in Herat province, western Afghanistan, Talibshah, who did not to give his family name, said he had been working in agriculture northwest of Tehran.

From Barron's

There’s a family name next to this address.

From Literature

About 111 million of the voting A shares are mostly in the family name.

From Barron's

Others, however, suggest Brooklyn is spoiled, has taken advantage of the family name himself, and shouldn't post on social media about his desire for privacy.

From BBC

Related Words

• last name