Surname in Japanese
"surname" in Japanese, with the kanji that carry the meaning.
2 Japanese kanji carry the meaning "surname". The most common choice is shown first.
Which one to use
苗字 (myōji) is the everyday word for a family name. 姓 is the same thing in formal and legal contexts — the word on documents. 氏 is older and carries lineage, the clan rather than the household, and it is also the suffix of respect attached to a man's name.
姓View details →
Top pick
surname
Reading: sei
8 strokes
Where it comes from
Composed of woman and birth. Lineage born from woman.
What it carries
Full name, surname, family name. Represents surname.
Related kanji for "surname"
Frequently asked questions
What is the Japanese kanji for surname?
The most common kanji for "surname" is 姓, read as sei. It means surname. Related kanji: 氏 (surname).
How many strokes does 姓 have?
姓 has 8 strokes.