Last Names Beginning with A: A Comprehensive List and Meanings

Are you looking for a unique and meaningful last name that starts with the letter A? This comprehensive list provides over 40 last names beginning with "A", along with their detailed meanings and origins. From ancient roots to modern innovations, explore the rich history and diverse cultural influences behind these surnames. Whether you're researching your family tree or simply seeking inspiration, this list will be a valuable resource for your journey.
1. **Abernathy:** From the Old English words "æþer" (noble) and "denu" (valley), meaning "noble valley."

2. **Abrams:** A Hebrew name meaning "exalted father."

3. **Acosta:** A Spanish surname derived from the Basque word "akosta," meaning "cliffside."

4. **Adams:** A common English surname derived from the given name Adam, meaning "man" or "earth."

5. **Adkins:** An English surname that likely originated from the given name "Adkin," a variant of "Adolph."

6. **Agnew:** A Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic words "aon" (one) and "gne" (fire), meaning "one fire."

7. **Aguilar:** A Spanish surname meaning "eagle," derived from the Latin word "aquila."

8. **Aiken:** An English surname meaning "oak meadow."

9. **Akins:** An English surname that likely originated from the given name "Akin," a variant of "Adolph."

10. **Alamo:** A Spanish surname referring to the Alamo, a famous mission in Texas.

11. **Albert:** A German name meaning "noble and bright."

12. **Alexander:** A Greek name meaning "defender of mankind."

13. **Alford:** An English surname meaning "old ford" or "crossing."

14. **Allen:** An English surname derived from the given name "Alan," meaning "handsome" or "harmony."

15. **Allison:** An English surname derived from the given name "Alice," meaning "noble" or "truth."

16. **Alston:** An English surname meaning "stone hill."

17. **Alvarado:** A Spanish surname meaning "watchtower" or "guard."

18. **Anderson:** An English surname meaning "son of Andrew," a Greek name meaning "manly."

19. **Andrews:** An English surname derived from the given name "Andrew," meaning "manly."

20. **Anthony:** A Latin name meaning "priceless" or "valuable."

21. **Archer:** An English surname derived from the occupation of "archer."

22. **Armstrong:** An English surname meaning "strong arm."

23. **Arnold:** A German name meaning "eagle power."

24. **Ashby:** An English surname meaning "ash tree settlement."

25. **Ashley:** An English surname meaning "ash tree meadow."

26. **Atkins:** An English surname that likely originated from the given name "Atkin," a variant of "Adolph."

27. **Atkinson:** An English surname meaning "son of Atkin," a variant of "Adolph."

28. **Austin:** An English surname derived from the given name "Austin," meaning "august" or "worthy."

29. **Avery:** An English surname derived from the given name "Averill," meaning "ruler of elves."

30. **Avila:** A Spanish surname meaning "dove" or "pigeon."

31. **Ayala:** A Spanish surname meaning "meadow" or "grassland."

32. **Aycock:** An English surname derived from the given name "Ayco," a variant of "Adolph."

33. **Aztec:** A surname referencing the ancient Aztec civilization of Mesoamerica.

34. **Azevedo:** A Portuguese surname derived from the place name "Azevedo," meaning "place of olive trees."

35. **Bailey:** An English surname meaning "bailiff" or "court official."

36. **Baker:** An English surname derived from the occupation of "baker."

37. **Baldwin:** A German name meaning "bold friend."

38. **Ballard:** An English surname meaning "dweller by a ball (ball court)."

39. **Banks:** An English surname derived from the occupation of "banker."

40. **Barber:** An English surname derived from the occupation of "barber."