Personal name

High school (ages 12+)
People & Society

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/personal-name

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the onomastics?The academic study of the origin, history, and use of proper names
2. What is the hereditary surnames?Became widespread in medieval Europe to identify family lineages and facilitate administration
3. What does my name tell about me and my family?Your name is like a secret code that shows who you are and where your family comes from. It can include special meanings from your culture or history.
4. Why do people have last names (surnames)?Last names started in old Europe to help keep track of families and share property. They show who your relatives are and help organize society.

Onomastics: The scholarly study of names, their origins, meanings, and usage.
Given Name: The first name, often chosen by parents, distinguishing an individual from others.
Surname: A hereditary family name, typically passed down from parents, indicating lineage.
Patronymic: A name derived from the father's given name, signifying descent (e.g., 'Johnson' means son of John).