Surname
/ˈsɜːr.neɪm/noun
A hereditary name common to all members of a family, used to distinguish them from others.
Did you know?The word 'surname' comes from the Latin for 'over name', hinting at the layers of identity we wear in society, often tied to lineage and legacy.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
supernomen
“An additional name, used to denote a person's family or lineage.”
Old French
Old French
sornom
“An added name or title, often signifying heritage or ancestry.”
Middle English
Middle English
surname
“The name indicating descent, used to distinguish families.”
Modern English
English
surname
“The family name inherited, marking social and familial ties.”
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