Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
cognomen
noun
/ˈkɒɡnəˌmɛn/
Definition
A Latin term used in Ancient Rome to refer to a family name or last name that distinguishes an individual from others in their family.
Examples
- The famous poet’s cognomen was derived from his grandfather.
- Many Roman citizens took on a cognomen to highlight their family lineage.
Meaning
The third name in the full Roman naming convention, used to identify a branch of a family or a specific individual within a larger family group.
Synonyms
- surname
- family name
- last name
