patronymic
adjective
(of family names) derived from the name of a father or ancestor, especially by the addition of a suffix or prefix indicating descent.
patronymically
-
a word derived from
patronymic.
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.
The idea, at all events, of naming nations patronymically from their leaders or founders was common in ancient times, though the correctness of some of the instances adduced is more than doubtful.
From Archaeological Essays, Vol. 1 by John Stuart
