family name

Definition of family namenext
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 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 Atlanta native is excited to carry his dreams and the family name forward. — Pj Green august 28, Kansas City Star, 28 Aug. 2026 As is the Pickwick Theater, built by his grandfather, and the William Malone Fountain by Rita’s on the Northwest Highway keeps the family name in town. — Jesse Wright, Chicago Tribune, 17 Aug. 2026 The largest gift, of $13 million, came from philanthropist Jane Bradley Pettit, who stipulated that the museum should always be called the Milwaukee Art Museum, without some corporation or family name in the title. — jsonline.com, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for family name
Recent Examples of Synonyms for family name
Noun
  • Soon after, Lewis adopted Risk, who took his surname, at age 21, according to friends and a blurb in the younger Lewis’ funeral program.
    — Alene Tchekmedyian, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Like other Tigrayans quoted in this story, he is being referred to only by his surname for fear of retaliation by armed groups.
    — Siyanne Mekonnen, Christian Science Monitor, 16 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • One was a woman named Stephanie, who didn't want her last name used but was cordial with me and my photographer.
    — Matt Calkins OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2026
  • The first report came from a man named Percy Wackey (that last name was spellchecked several times) who lived in Avalon.
    — Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Family name.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/family%20name. Accessed 31 Oct. 2026.

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