Popular Last Names in America: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Meanings

Looking for the most common last names in America? This comprehensive guide provides a detailed breakdown of the origins and meanings behind some of the most popular surnames in the United States. From traditional family names with deep historical roots to modern variations, this list explores the rich tapestry of American heritage reflected in last names.
1. Smith: A common occupational surname for a blacksmith or metal worker, derived from the Old English word "smiþ."
2. Johnson: Derived from the English name John, meaning "God is gracious."
3. Williams: Derived from the English name William, meaning "resolute protector."
4. Brown: An occupational surname for someone who worked with or tanned animal hides.
5. Jones: Derived from the English name John, meaning "God is gracious."
6. Miller: An occupational surname for someone who operated a mill, typically a grain mill.
7. Davis: Derived from the English name David, meaning "beloved."
8. Garcia: A Spanish surname meaning "bear" or "warrior."
9. Rodriguez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Rodrigo."
10. Wilson: An occupational surname for someone who worked with wool or was a weaver.
11. Moore: An occupational surname for someone who lived on or near a moor or marsh.
12. Taylor: An occupational surname for someone who worked as a tailor, sewing clothes.
13. Anderson: Derived from the English name Andrew, meaning "manly" or "strong."
14. Thomas: Derived from the Aramaic name meaning "twin."
15. Jackson: Derived from the English name Jack, a diminutive form of John, meaning "God is gracious."
16. White: A descriptive surname for someone with fair skin or light hair.
17. Harris: Derived from the English name Harry, a diminutive form of Henry, meaning "ruler of the home."
18. Martin: Derived from the Latin name "Mars," the Roman god of war.
19. Thompson: Derived from the English name Tom, a diminutive form of Thomas, meaning "twin."
20. Martinez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Martin."
21. Robinson: Derived from the English name Robin, a diminutive form of Robert, meaning "bright fame."
22. Clark: An occupational surname for someone who worked as a scribe or secretary.
23. Lewis: Derived from the French name Louis, meaning "famous warrior."
24. Lee: Derived from a place name meaning "clearing in the woods" or "meadow."
25. Walker: An occupational surname for someone who worked as a walker, often transporting goods.
26. Hall: Derived from the Old English word "hæl" meaning "hall" or "dwelling."
27. Allen: Derived from the Old English word "ælf" meaning "elf" or "fairy."
28. Young: A descriptive surname for someone who was young, or perhaps an occupation related to youth.
29. Hernandez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Hernando."
30. King: An occupational surname for someone who held a position of royal authority.
31. Wright: An occupational surname for someone who worked as a craftsman or builder.
32. Lopez: A Spanish surname meaning "wolf."
33. Hill: Derived from a place name meaning "hill" or "elevated area."
34. Scott: Derived from a place name in Scotland, meaning "forest."
35. Green: A descriptive surname for someone who lived near or worked with greenery.
36. Adams: Derived from the English name Adam, meaning "mankind."
37. Baker: An occupational surname for someone who baked bread or other goods.
38. Gonzalez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Gonzalo."
39. Nelson: Derived from the English name Neil, meaning "champion."
40. Carter: An occupational surname for someone who transported goods by cart.
41. Mitchell: Derived from the English name Michael, meaning "who is like God."
42. Perez: A Spanish surname meaning "son of Pedro."
43. Roberts: Derived from the English name Robert, meaning "bright fame."
44. Turner: An occupational surname for someone who worked as a turner, shaping wood or metal.
45. Phillips: Derived from the Greek name "Philippos" meaning "lover of horses."
46. Campbell: Derived from a Gaelic word meaning "crooked mouth."
47. Parker: An occupational surname for someone who worked as a keeper of a park.
48. Evans: Derived from the Welsh name Evan, meaning "the Lord is gracious."
49. Edwards: Derived from the English name Edward, meaning "wealthy guardian."
50. Collins: An occupational surname for someone who worked as a coal miner or charcoal burner.