Sirname vs. Surname: The Correct Spellings

The confusion between "sirname" and surname might arise from the phonetic similarity of the two. However, the correct spelling is surname. This word is used to denote a person's family name, which is typically passed from one generation to the next.

There are derivatives of the word surname. For instance, "surnaming" refers to the act of giving or using a surname.

The term surname has historical roots, dating back to the Middle Ages in Europe. It was introduced as a way to distinguish individuals with the same first name, especially in regions where certain first names were particularly prevalent. This "additional name" became necessary for clearer identification and was usually based on occupation, location, or a personal characteristic.

To easily remember the spelling of surname, think of it as a "sure name," a definite identifier for a person. This mental association can help remind you that the word starts with "sur-" rather than "sir."

Incorrect: Her sirname is Smith.

Correct: Her surname is Smith.

Incorrect: Please enter your sirname in the form.

Correct: Please enter your surname in the form.

Incorrect: What is your sirname?

Correct: What is your surname?

Incorrect: She changed her sirname after getting married.

Correct: She changed her surname after getting married.

Incorrect: His sirname is very common in that region.

Correct: His surname is very common in that region.

Surname can be used to describe a name that shows tribal affiliation in certain cultures.

Surname refers to the family name shared by members of the same family.

Surname is a name added to a person's given name, often inherited.

Surname also refers to an epithet added to a person's name to denote a personal quality or attribute.

Surname denotes the part of a person's name distinguishing them from other members of their family; as opposed to their first name.

A name shared in common to identify the members of a family, as distinguished from each member's given name. Also called family name, last name.

A nickname or epithet added to a person's name.

To give a surname to.

(obsolete) An additional name, particularly those derived from a birthplace, quality, or achievement; an epithet.

(obsolete) An additional name given to a person, place, or thing; a byname or nickname.

The name a person shares with other members of that person's family, distinguished from that person's given name or names; a family name.

(Classical studies) The cognomen of Roman names.

A clan.

(transitive) To give a surname to.

(transitive) To call by a surname.

A name or appellation which is added to, or over and above, the baptismal or Christian name, and becomes a family name.

An appellation added to the original name; an agnomen.

To name or call by an appellation added to the original name; to give a surname to.

the name used to identify the members of a family (as distinguished from each member's given name)

What is your surname?

She changed her surname after getting married.

His surname is the same as his father's.

His surname is very common in that region.

In many cultures, the surname comes last in a person's full name.

She decided to hyphenate her surname after marriage.

He kept his mother's surname instead of his father's.

Her surname is Smith.

Please enter your surname in the form.

The form requires your first name and surname.

Some people use their middle name more than their surname.

Children usually inherit their father's surname.

Your surname can tell a lot about your ancestry.

Surname traditions vary greatly around the world.

In some countries, women do not change their surname after marriage.

Choosing a baby's surname can be a big decision for some parents.

Her surname is listed first on the passport.

She was surprised to meet someone with the same unusual surname.

The database sorts the entries by surname alphabetically.

Surname dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe, used to differentiate people with the same first names by adding an additional name based on occupation, location, or personal characteristic.

A surname is typically used as a family name, often passed down from one generation to the next.

"Sirname" is an incorrect spelling, while surname refers to a person's family name.

Over time, surnames have evolved from mere identifiers to significant cultural, social, and legal markers.

"Sirname" does not adhere to the standard spelling conventions of English for the term that denotes a family name.

A surname serves as an identifier, often indicating familial ties or lineage.

While the concept of family names exists worldwide, the traditions and norms surrounding surnames can vary across cultures.

Yes, due to their phonetic similarity, it can be a common mistake.

While in many Western cultures the surname is the last name, the sequence can vary in different cultures, with the family name appearing before the given name.

Think of it as a "sure name," a definite identifier for a person, to remember that it starts with "sur-."