family name

as in surname
a name shared by members of a family searched for their family name on a popular genealogy website

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of family name The family name is kind of a big deal in Arlington. Rick Mauch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Sep. 2025 While the Lynch family name is known throughout metro Detroit for funeral homes, Paddy Lynch, now 41, and the third generation to work in the family business, is also an entrepreneur who is making a name for himself in unlikely fields. Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 6 Sep. 2025 Charles Oppenheimer knows his family name comes with a heavy responsibility. Davis Winkie, USA Today, 22 Aug. 2025 Having spent decades in the industry and commanding a four-generations family name, Clark Credle’s film community has come together to support his journey of recovery. Nikki Sternberg, HollywoodReporter, 6 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for family name
Recent Examples of Synonyms for family name
Noun
  • Andrew will now go by Mountbatten Windsor, the royal family's surname for direct descendants of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.
    Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Baptista is Portuguese, and the baby’s name is a nod to her roots and her family surname.
    Sarah Scott, Parents, 29 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The 6-month-old tabby joined Jon and Krista, who declined to share their last name, this summer.
    Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 4 Nov. 2025
  • Their younger sister is still living with Candice and Joe and has even taken their last name, Aleisha says.
    Chris Spargo, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Family name.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/family%20name. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

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