matronym

A matronym is a personal name derived from the name of a mother or maternal ancestor. In naming systems, it is the counterpart to a patronym, which is derived from the father’s name. A matronymic form can function as a given name or as a surname, depending on linguistic tradition and legal practices.

Etymology: The term combines matro-, from the Latin matrona meaning mother, with -nym, from the Greek onoma meaning name. The concept is discussed in studies of onomastics, the science of names.

Usage and context: Patronymic naming is widespread in many historical and cultural contexts, but matronymic forms have appeared in various cultures and periods where maternal lineage could be emphasized or where surname systems allowed flexibility. They have been documented in some Scandinavian, Baltic, and other traditions, and appear in modern times in chosen surnames, stage or pen names, or genealogical records. In Iceland and other places that use patronymics, matronymics may be used when the mother’s name is the basis for the form, though they remain comparatively rare.

Examples: If a mother is named Mary, a child might bear a matronymic surname such as Marysson (son of Mary) or Marysdóttir (daughter of Mary) in languages that form patronymics from the parent’s name. A given name might also be derived directly from the mother’s name, such as a daughter named Maria after her mother Maria.

See also: Patronym, Onomastics, Surname.