Vezetékneve

Vezetékneve, a term often encountered in Hungarian contexts, refers to the family name or surname—the part of a personal name that identifies the bearer’s family lineage. In Hungarian usage the standard term is vezetéknév, contrasted with keresztnév (given name). The vezetéknév is typically inherited and shared by close relatives, serving as the primary element by which a family is recognized.

Etymology: the word comes from the Hungarian segments vezet ('to lead') and név ('name'), literally conveying the sense of a leading name used to identify lineage. In practice it functions as the surname used for formal identification, official records, and indexing.

Usage and variation: Hungarian names are usually given-name followed by family-name in everyday usage, for example László Nagy. For lists and indexing, the family name often serves as the primary key. Surnames may be single or compound; double-barrelled surnames can arise from marriage or personal choice. Changes to a surname may be possible through civil procedures, marriage, or legal name changes, depending on jurisdiction and local rules.

Origins and patterns: Many Hungarian surnames reflect occupations, places, or personal characteristics, and may have origins in Hungarian, German, Slavic, or other linguistic traditions due to historical population movements. Surnames are transmitted across generations and typically remain constant for adults, though legal changes are possible.

In international contexts, Hungarian names are frequently presented in the given-name–surname order, while lists and databases may index primarily by the surname to aid search and organization.