What is maiden name?

A maiden name is a woman's surname or family name that she had before she got married and changed her last name. In many cultures, women traditionally take on their husband's surname after marriage, but some women choose to keep their maiden name for various personal, professional, or cultural reasons.

The use of maiden names can vary depending on individual preference and cultural norms. Some women may choose to use their maiden name as a middle name or hyphenate their last name with their spouse's last name. In other cases, women may choose to use their maiden name professionally but legally change their last name to their spouse's last name.

Keeping or changing one's maiden name is a personal choice and can depend on factors such as family traditions, career considerations, and personal identity. In some cases, women may decide to legally change their last name back to their maiden name if they divorce or become widowed.

Overall, a woman's maiden name is an important part of her identity and heritage, and the decision to keep or change it after marriage is a personal choice that should be respected.