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

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

From Salon

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

From Los Angeles Times

Both have responded to jabs from outside groups, with Grijalva being accused of running on her family name.

From Salon

The author said Winn was her maiden name, and she disliked her first name of Sally and decided to use her family name Raynor as a pen name.

From BBC

For Chávez, it represents a chance to reclaim his lost place, to prove that his lineage is not just a family name but legitimate talent.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• last name