maiden name

noun

plural maiden names
: the surname prior to marriage of a person who takes their spouse's last name
especially : the surname of a married or divorced woman prior to marriage
After she divorced, she took back her maiden name.

Examples of maiden name in a Sentence

After she divorced, she took back her maiden name.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lopez will also revert to her maiden name, Jennifer Lynn Lopez. Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 8 Jan. 2025 Claire is charmed that the man has the same last name as her maiden name. Lincee Ray, EW.com, 28 Dec. 2024 Dana Taylor: Following his father's arrest, Dakota made the decision to change his last name to his mother's maiden name in defiance of his father. Dana Taylor, USA TODAY, 31 Oct. 2024 Lincoln's middle names — Michael and Robert — come from his grandfathers, while Carter's middle names — Pauly and Dunn — are Schneider's mom's maiden name and her middle name, as well as Harrison's mom's maiden name and his middle name, respectively. Hannah Sacks, People.com, 2 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for maiden name 

Word History

First Known Use

1653, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of maiden name was in 1653

Dictionary Entries Near maiden name

Cite this Entry

“Maiden name.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maiden%20name. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

maiden name

noun
: a woman's family name before she is married

More from Merriam-Webster on maiden name

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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