surname of american: List of Common Surnames

Curious about the most common surnames found in America? The surname "of American" doesn't exist as a standalone surname, but it's likely you're interested in learning about the most frequently occurring surnames within the United States. Let's explore the diverse landscape of American surnames and the fascinating stories behind them.
1. **Smith:** This ubiquitous surname traces its roots back to the Middle Ages, when blacksmiths were essential to society. The word "smith" simply means "one who works with metal," reflecting the importance of this trade.
2. **Johnson:** As a patronymic surname, Johnson means "son of John," a common given name in both English and Scandinavian cultures. This name highlights the prevalence of biblical names and the use of patronymics in medieval Europe.
3. **Williams:** Similar to Johnson, Williams is a patronymic surname derived from the name "William," meaning "resolute protector" or "strong-willed warrior."
4. **Brown:** A descriptive surname, Brown is derived from the color brown, often associated with hair, skin, or even the family's occupation. It's a common surname across various cultures.
5. **Jones:** Another patronymic surname, Jones means "son of John," mirroring the origin of Johnson. This surname further emphasizes the impact of biblical names and their associated patronymics.
6. **Miller:** As a descriptive surname, Miller refers to someone who grinds grain into flour, highlighting the importance of this profession in agricultural societies.
7. **Davis:** A patronymic surname, Davis means "son of David," a name of Hebrew origin meaning "beloved" or "friend."
8. **Garcia:** A Spanish surname, Garcia is derived from the name "Garcias," meaning "spear" or "lance," symbolizing strength and protection.
9. **Rodriguez:** Another Spanish surname, Rodriguez means "son of Rodrigo," a name of Germanic origin meaning "famous ruler."
10. **Wilson:** A patronymic surname, Wilson means "son of William," mirroring the origin of Williams.
11. **Martinez:** A Spanish surname, Martinez means "son of Martin," a name of Latin origin meaning "war god" or "Mars."
12. **Anderson:** A patronymic surname, Anderson means "son of Andrew," a name of Greek origin meaning "manly" or "strong."
13. **Thomas:** A name of Aramaic origin, Thomas means "twin," signifying a special connection between siblings.
14. **Taylor:** A descriptive surname, Taylor refers to someone who cuts cloth or makes clothes, highlighting the importance of this trade.
15. **Moore:** A descriptive surname, Moore refers to someone who lives near or on a moor, a type of open grassland.
16. **Jackson:** A patronymic surname, Jackson means "son of Jack," which itself is a short form of the name "John."
17. **White:** A descriptive surname, White is derived from the color white, often referring to hair, skin, or clothing.
18. **Harris:** A patronymic surname, Harris means "son of Harry," which is a short form of the name "Henry."
19. **Martin:** A name of Latin origin, Martin means "war god" or "Mars," reflecting the association with strength and power.
20. **Thompson:** A patronymic surname, Thompson means "son of Thomas," mirroring the origin of Thomas.
21. **Gonzalez:** A Spanish surname, Gonzalez means "son of Gonzalo," a name of Germanic origin meaning "warriors' protection."
22. **Lopez:** A Spanish surname, Lopez means "son of Lope," a name of Basque origin meaning "wolf."
23. **Lee:** A descriptive surname, Lee refers to someone who lives near or on a meadow, a type of open grassland.
24. **Allen:** A descriptive surname, Allen refers to someone who lives near a rock or cliff.
25. **Hernandez:** A Spanish surname, Hernandez means "son of Hernando," a name of Germanic origin meaning "army ruler."
26. **Young:** A descriptive surname, Young refers to someone who is young or inexperienced.
27. **King:** A descriptive surname, King refers to a ruler of a kingdom or a person of high social rank.
28. **Wright:** A descriptive surname, Wright refers to someone who works with wood or makes things, such as a carpenter or a craftsman.
29. **Lopez:** A Spanish surname, Lopez means "son of Lope," a name of Basque origin meaning "wolf."
30. **Hill:** A descriptive surname, Hill refers to someone who lives near or on a hill.
31. **Scott:** A Scottish surname, Scott means "from the Scottish highlands," reflecting the origin of the family.
32. **Green:** A descriptive surname, Green refers to someone who lives near or on a green space or field.
33. **Adams:** A patronymic surname, Adams means "son of Adam," a biblical name referring to the first human being.
34. **Baker:** A descriptive surname, Baker refers to someone who bakes bread or other pastries.
35. **Gonzalez:** A Spanish surname, Gonzalez means "son of Gonzalo," a name of Germanic origin meaning "warriors' protection."
36. **Nelson:** A patronymic surname, Nelson means "son of Neil," a name of Gaelic origin meaning "champion" or "bright one."
37. **Carter:** A descriptive surname, Carter refers to someone who transports goods by cart.
38. **Mitchell:** A patronymic surname, Mitchell means "son of Michael," a name of Hebrew origin meaning "who is like God?"
39. **Perez:** A Spanish surname, Perez means "son of Pedro," a name of Latin origin meaning "rock" or "stone."
40. **Roberts:** A patronymic surname, Roberts means "son of Robert," a name of Germanic origin meaning "bright fame."