family name

noun

Examples of family name in a Sentence

Her family name is Smith. searched for their family name on a popular genealogy website
Recent Examples on the Web In an Instagram video in February 2021, Christina explained that reverting to her family name was a move to honor her grandmother. Miles Berry, People.com, 15 Oct. 2024 Thomas tried to separate himself from the family name to find his own success, but still plays a few of his grandfather’s songs for sentimental reasons. Francesca Gariano, Peoplemag, 14 Sep. 2024 Tribal languages and dances were forbidden, family names were erased. Peter Rainer, The Christian Science Monitor, 15 Aug. 2024 The family name has adorned museums in New York, Italy, Spain, and soon Abu Dhabi. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 18 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for family name 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'family name.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of family name was in 1646

Dictionary Entries Near family name

Cite this Entry

“Family name.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/family%20name. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

family name

noun

More from Merriam-Webster on family name

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