What is the maiden name?

The maiden name is also known as the birth name or family name of a woman before she gets married. It is the last name that a woman is given at birth and typically changes to her husband's last name after marriage. The tradition of women taking their husband's last name dates back to patriarchal societies where women were considered property of their husbands. However, in modern times, many women choose to keep their maiden name or hyphenate it with their husband's last name. The maiden name is often used for legal documentation, official records, and genealogical research.