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
  • Nataliia made a pastry swan to celebrate her grandparents, whose surname translates to the name of a wetland bird.
    Brian Moylan, Vulture, 10 Oct. 2025
  • This here is a nepo baby failing to live up to his surname.
    Blake Toppmeyer, USA TODAY, 9 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • But another two-way youngster who shares his last name stole the show Sunday.
    Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 13 Oct. 2025
  • Fox59 reporter Russ McQuaid's last name was originally spelled wrong.
    Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 12 Oct. 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 19 Oct. 2025.

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