Category: Names

How to Refer to Aunts and Uncles: Grand, Not Great

Great-uncle, or grand-uncle? Here's one perspective on the avuncular controversy.

Same Name for Different People in Old Records Premium

You knew all those search results with the same name were too good to be true. Through this case study, learn how to follow your actual ancestor's record trail and weed out the imposters.

Decipher the Meaning Behind a Danish Surname

Danish surnames can be tricky. Make sure a record didn't list your ancestor's occupation as part of his name using these tips.

Your Male Ancestors’ Nicknames Premium

Can't find your male ancestor in a database? This male nicknames list will provide you the clues you need to identify them.

Name Translation Chart: Compare Names Across Languages Premium

Jumping between US and foreign records? Figure out how your ancestor's name may appear in another language with this name translation chart.

Can You Claim a Coat of Arms Based on Your Last Name? Premium

Should you hang up your family coat of arms - or show it off? We’ll untangle the myths of heraldry and help you start discovering your armigerous ancestry.

Free 10 Essential Genealogy Research Forms

Surnames and the Royal Family: How it Works Premium

Not sure what the surname of the Royal Family is? You're not the only one! Join us for a brief history and explanation of the beloved family's last name.

Coming Soon: A Royal Wedding and a New Coat of Arms

Will Prince Harry and his new fiancee, American actress Meghan Markle, be granted a conjugal coat of arms? We'll look at heraldry related to royal weddings.

Your Searchable Guide to Female Ancestor Nicknames Premium

Can't find your female ancestor in a database? This nicknames list will provide you the clues you need to identify them.

The Issue of Common Surnames

Identifying unknown people in a photograph is always tricky... but add a very common surname to the mix, and it's even hard. Our Photo Detective Maureen A. Taylor is on the case!

Surname Genealogy Strategies: My Favorite (and Least Favorite) Last Names to Research

What's the most annoying last name to research in your family tree? Not the ancestor or relative whose name it is, but the name itself. Mine are: Frost, because searching the web or old newspapers and books brings up weather reports. It's also among the more-common names in my...

Researching Unusual Last Names for Genealogy Premium

An unusual surname is a valuable tool for a genealogist. Discover six strategies to use oddball names in your tree to your greatest advantage.

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