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Definitions from WordNet

Definitions from the Web

Surname

Description:

A surname is a hereditary name passed down from one generation to another, typically indicating family lineage. It is often used to distinguish individuals within a family or identify the origin of a person's ancestry.

Possible Parts of Speech:

• Noun
• Verb

Senses:

Noun:

1. A family name, inherited by individuals.
2. The last name of a person or family.

Verb:

1. To assign or acquire a surname.

Usages:

Popular:

Noun: Many people use their surnames to trace their family history and genealogy.

Verb: After marriage, she decided to surname herself with her husband's last name.

Local:

Noun: In some cultures, it is customary to place the surname before the given name.

Verb: The custom in this region is to surname children based on their father's name.

Sample Sentences:

Noun: John Smith is a common surname in English-speaking countries.

Noun: The Johnsons and the Parkers share the same surname but are not related.

Verb: The newly adopted child was surnamed Johnson as she joined the family.

Verb: It is customary in this country to surname children using a combination of the father's and mother's surnames.

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