The term "agnames" refers to a family surname that is inherited through the paternal line. Some common synonyms for agnames include patronyms, surname, family name, last name, and cognomen. Patronyms are surnames based on the father's given name, while cognomens are nicknames given to individuals and later passed down as surnames. In different cultures, agnames may take on various forms, such as the Japanese kazoku-na and Arabic nisba. Understanding synonyms for the term agnames can aid in genealogy research and help individuals trace their family lineage back through multiple generations.