Common Last Names in the United States: Meaning and Origin

Are you curious about the most common last names in the United States and their fascinating origins? This comprehensive list explores the top 40 surnames in the U.S., revealing their meanings, historical significance, and cultural impact. From classic Anglo-Saxon roots to diverse origins around the globe, these names offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of American history and heritage.
1. **Smith:** A common occupational name, meaning "one who works with metal" or "blacksmith."
2. **Johnson:** Derived from the English given name "John," meaning "God is gracious."
3. **Williams:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of William," a name of Germanic origin meaning "resolute protector."
4. **Brown:** A descriptive surname referring to someone with brown hair or skin.
5. **Jones:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of John."
6. **Miller:** An occupational name for someone who worked as a miller, grinding grain.
7. **Davis:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of David," a Hebrew name meaning "beloved" or "friend."
8. **Garcia:** A Spanish surname meaning "one who comes from the town of Garci."
9. **Rodriguez:** A Spanish surname meaning "son of Rodrigo," a name meaning "famous ruler."
10. **Wilson:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of William."
11. **Moore:** A topographic surname referring to someone who lived near a moor or open land.
12. **Taylor:** An occupational name for someone who worked as a tailor.
13. **Anderson:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of Andrew," a Greek name meaning "manly" or "brave."
14. **Thomas:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of Thomas," an Aramaic name meaning "twin."
15. **Jackson:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of Jack," a diminutive of John.
16. **White:** A descriptive surname referring to someone with fair hair or skin.
17. **Harris:** A surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, meaning "hare" or "warrior."
18. **Martin:** A surname derived from the Latin name "Martinus," meaning "warlike."
19. **Thompson:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of Thomas."
20. **Martinez:** A Spanish surname meaning "son of Martin."
21. **Robinson:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of Robin," a diminutive of Robert.
22. **Clark:** An occupational name for someone who worked as a scribe or secretary.
23. **Lewis:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of Lewis," a French name meaning "renowned warrior."
24. **Lee:** A topographic surname referring to someone who lived near a clearing or meadow.
25. **Walker:** An occupational name for someone who worked as a walker or shepherd.
26. **Hall:** A topographic surname referring to someone who lived near a hall or large house.
27. **Allen:** A surname derived from the Old English name "Alan," meaning "handsome."
28. **Young:** A descriptive surname meaning "young" or "youthful."
29. **Hernandez:** A Spanish surname meaning "son of Hernando," a name meaning "strong" or "brave."
30. **King:** An occupational name for someone who worked as a king or ruler.
31. **Wright:** An occupational name for someone who worked as a craftsman or artisan.
32. **Lopez:** A Spanish surname meaning "son of Lope," a name meaning "wolf."
33. **Hill:** A topographic surname referring to someone who lived near a hill or elevated land.
34. **Scott:** A surname derived from the Gaelic name "Scotice," meaning "from Scotland."
35. **Green:** A descriptive surname referring to someone with green eyes or someone who lived near a green area.
36. **Adams:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of Adam."
37. **Baker:** An occupational name for someone who worked as a baker.
38. **Gonzalez:** A Spanish surname meaning "son of Gonzalo," a name meaning "battle-ready."
39. **Nelson:** A patronymic surname meaning "son of Neil," a Gaelic name meaning "champion."
40. **Carter:** An occupational name for someone who worked as a cart driver.