What is what does surname mean?

Surname is another term for family name or last name. It is a name that is passed down from one generation to another and identifies members of a particular family. Surnames have been used for centuries, but they were not common until the late Middle Ages when people needed to distinguish themselves from others with the same given name. Surnames often have historical, cultural, or geographical origins related to a particular ethnic group or geographic region. Some surnames are also derived from nicknames, professions, titles, or descriptive features. Assigning a surname is a common practice worldwide, and it helps in identifying and tracing one's family tree and historical background.