last name

American  

noun

1. surname.

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last name British  

noun

1. another term for surname

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Etymology

Origin of last name

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

Mr. and Mrs. Holley’s newborn was not a girl—as the world would one day find out when Buddy removed the “e” from the family’s last name and became a professional singer.

From The Wall Street Journal

Dio, a customer who didn't give her last name, said she visited the restaurant after seeing the craze around it.

From Barron's

Another resident who wanted a cut was Gilberto, who declined to give his last name.

From Los Angeles Times

“Even with that, it is expensive — you pay for gas, books, computers,” said Juan, who requested that his last name not be used.

From Los Angeles Times

“It was a protest entitled Bigotry is Bad for Business,” said Chelsea, the photographer, whose last name is being withheld over concerns for her safety.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• surname