For questions about the use, distribution, origin and etymology of surnames, also known as family names or last names.
A surname is a hereditary name common to all members of a family, hence also known as a family name. It is usually associated with a given name that distinguishes individuals within the family. In some (but not all) languages, a surname may be called a last name because of its customary placement.
Related tags include naming and name-change.
There is a Meta Q&A about whether such questions are on topic at Surname origins and meaning: on-topic?
