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Patronymic: meaning, definitions and examples

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patronymic

 

[ pætrəˈnɪmɪk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

family name

A patronymic is a name derived from that of a father or ancestor, typically by the addition of a suffix or prefix. It often reflects the lineage or family heritage of an individual. Patronymics are commonly used in various cultures around the world, where they serve to identify a person's paternal lineage. For example, in many Slavic, Scandinavian, and Arabic cultures, patronymic naming conventions are prevalent. These names can provide insight into family history and cultural traditions.

Synonyms

ancestral name, lineage name

Examples of usage

  • Ivanovich is a patronymic meaning 'son of Ivan'.
  • In Russian culture, a patronymic is used in formal settings.
  • Patronymics can be a source of pride in family heritage.

Translations

Translations of the word "patronymic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 patronímico

🇮🇳 पितृनाम

🇩🇪 Patronym

🇮🇩 patronimik

🇺🇦 патронімік

🇵🇱 patronim

🇯🇵 父称

🇫🇷 patronyme

🇪🇸 patronímico

🇹🇷 baba adı

🇰🇷 부성

🇸🇦 اسم الأب

🇨🇿 patronymikum

🇸🇰 patronymikum

🇨🇳 父名

🇸🇮 patronim

🇮🇸 feðraheiti

🇰🇿 әкенің аты

🇬🇪 მამათ სახელით

🇦🇿 ata adı

🇲🇽 patronímico

Word origin

The term 'patronymic' comes from the Greek word 'patronymikos', which means 'derived from the name of a father'. This word itself is a combination of 'patēr' meaning 'father' and 'onuma' meaning 'name'. The use of patronymics has been prevalent throughout history, especially in societies that placed a strong emphasis on lineage and familial connections. In many cultures, the patronymic was a way to acknowledge the father figure's influence and status within the family. As naming conventions evolved, patronymics became formalized with specific prefixes and suffixes, such as 'son', 'sen', or '-ov', which are found in various languages. While modernization has led some to move away from traditional patronymic systems, they still hold cultural significance and are a vital part of identifying ancestral roots.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,134 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.