family name

noun

Synonyms of family namenext
: surname sense 2

Synonyms of family name

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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
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.
The events were meant to draw attention to the family name law requiring married couples to share a last name, known as Article 750, which has been on the books for 128 years. — Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 3 Sep. 2026 The family name remained when The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts took over in 2016. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026 The Atlanta native is excited to carry his dreams and the family name forward. — Pj Green august 28, Kansas City Star, 28 Aug. 2026 Prosecutors are seeking the maximum five-year sentences for four of the nine defendants, including Chang, an Nvidia manager identified just by his family name. — ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for family name

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

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

Rhymes for family name

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Browse Nearby Words

family man
family name
family of nations
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Cite this Entry

“Family name.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/family%20name. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

family name

noun
: surname sense 2

More from Merriam-Webster on family name

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about family name

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