surname; family name; last name
A straightforward compound meaning 'upper name', referring to the family name in Japanese name order (surname first). Used in contexts where the distinction between given name and family name is relevant, such as forms or introductions.
On this form, please write your surname first.
彼の上の名前は田中です。
His family name is Tanaka.
A more common and general word for surname. 上の名前 is more explicit about the position in Japanese name order and is often used in contrast with 下の名前.
Compound of 上 (うえ, 'upper') + の (possessive particle) + 名前 (なまえ, 'name'), literally 'upper name', reflecting the traditional Japanese name order where the family name comes first.