Dictionary of American Family Names, 2nd Edition: 5-Volume Set

The second edition of Dictionary of American Family Names contains over 80,000 surnames, reflecting the diversity of the American population. It includes names from all over the world, with particular attention to Native American and African American surnames. The dictionary explains the meanings of names, their frequencies, and their historical and linguistic origins. It also includes tens of thousands of new and corrected etymologies, origins, and name histories.

Format: Hardback
Length: 3856 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

This second edition of the Dictionary of American Family Names, a comprehensive resource that spans over 80,000 of the most prevalent surnames in the United States, offers a remarkable reflection of the nation's ever-evolving diversity. In an effort to encompass a broader spectrum of names, all surnames with a minimum of 300 bearers in the 2010 US Census have been included, resulting in a substantial increase of over 10,000 names discussed. This expansion not only broadens the representation of languages and cultures from North and South America, Eastern Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia but also addresses the absence of many names from the first edition.

Special attention has been given to Native American and African American surnames, recognizing the importance of further research in these crucial areas of American family history and naming practices. The dictionary, a product of a seventeen-year research project involving the expertise of over thirty linguistic consultants from diverse corners of the world, elucidates the meanings behind more than 90 percent of the family names in the US. It provides comparative frequencies, linguistic and historical explanations, selected associated forenames, and occasional genealogical notes.

In addition to the extensive collection of names, this edition boasts tens of thousands of new and corrected or improved etymologies, origins, and name histories. Furthermore, it includes authoritative introductory essays, many of which are new or revised, offering insights into naming customs across the globe.

The Dictionary of American Family Names stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of American society, providing a valuable resource for researchers, genealogists, and anyone interested in exploring the origins and meanings of family names. Its revised and expanded nature ensures that it remains an indispensable tool for understanding the diverse heritage of the United States.

Weight: 11932g
Dimension: 319 x 468 x 208 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190245115
Edition number: 2 Revised edition