American Last Names: Common and Their Meanings

This list explores some of the most common American last names and their origins. Understanding the etymology of these names can provide insights into family history, cultural influences, and the diverse tapestry of American heritage. Whether you're seeking information about your own surname or simply curious about the stories behind these common names, this list offers a glimpse into their rich and varied meanings.
1. Smith: A common occupational name for a blacksmith or metal worker.
2. Jones: Derived from the given name John, meaning "God is gracious."
3. Brown: A descriptive name referring to someone with brown hair or complexion.
4. Davis: A patronymic name meaning "son of David," referring to the biblical King David.
5. Miller: An occupational name for someone who grinds grain into flour.
6. Wilson: A patronymic name meaning "son of William," derived from the Germanic name meaning "resolute protector."
7. Moore: Derived from the Old English word "moor," meaning "swampy or marshy land."
8. Taylor: An occupational name for a tailor, someone who makes clothes.
9. Anderson: A patronymic name meaning "son of Andrew," derived from the Greek name meaning "manly" or "courageous."
10. Thomas: A given name meaning "twin" in Aramaic.
11. Jackson: A patronymic name meaning "son of Jack," which is a nickname for John.
12. White: A descriptive name referring to someone with fair skin or light hair.
13. Harris: Derived from the Old English word "hari," meaning "army" or "warrior."
14. Martin: Derived from the Roman god of war, Mars.
15. Thompson: A patronymic name meaning "son of Thomas."
16. Garcia: A Spanish surname derived from the given name García, which is a variant of Gerard, meaning "spearman."
17. Martinez: A Spanish surname derived from the given name Martín, a variant of Martin.
18. Robinson: A patronymic name meaning "son of Robin," which is a nickname for Robert.
19. Clark: An occupational name for a scribe or secretary.
20. Lewis: Derived from the German name Ludwig, meaning "famous warrior."
21. Lee: A surname that can have various origins, including topographic names referring to a meadow or clearing, or patronymic names meaning "son of Leo."
22. Walker: An occupational name for someone who walks or travels on foot.
23. Hall: A topographic name referring to a large house or manor.
24. Allen: Derived from the Old French word "alain," meaning "handsome" or "noble."
25. Young: A descriptive name referring to someone who is youthful or inexperienced.
26. Hernandez: A Spanish surname derived from the given name Hernando, a variant of Ferdinand, meaning "brave voyager."
27. King: A surname that can have various origins, including occupational names for someone who served a king, or descriptive names referring to a king's descendant.
28. Wright: An occupational name for someone who makes or builds things, often referring to a carpenter or blacksmith.
29. Lopez: A Spanish surname derived from the given name Lope, a nickname for a wolf.
30. Hill: A topographic name referring to a hill or elevated land.
31. Scott: A surname that can have various origins, including topographic names referring to a piece of land or a forest, or patronymic names meaning "son of Scott."
32. Green: A descriptive name referring to someone who lives near a green space or has a green complexion.
33. Adams: A patronymic name meaning "son of Adam."
34. Baker: An occupational name for someone who bakes bread.
35. Gonzalez: A Spanish surname derived from the given name Gonzalo, a variant of Gundisalvus, meaning "war-brave" or "war-strong."
36. Nelson: A patronymic name meaning "son of Neil," derived from the Gaelic name meaning "champion."
37. Carter: An occupational name for someone who transports goods by cart.
38. Mitchell: A patronymic name meaning "son of Michael," derived from the Hebrew name meaning "who is like God?"
39. Perez: A Spanish surname derived from the given name Pedro, a variant of Peter, meaning "rock" or "stone."
40. Roberts: A patronymic name meaning "son of Robert," derived from the Germanic name meaning "bright fame."