English surnames are family names that often reflect a person's occupation, location, or a characteristic. For example, names like Smith indicate a profession related to metalworking, while names like Hill may refer to geographical features. These surnames have evolved over centuries and can provide insights into a family's history and heritage. Many English surnames have origins in Old English, Norman, or other languages due to historical events like the Norman Conquest. Surnames can also indicate lineage, with names like Johnson meaning "son of John." Understanding these names helps trace ancestry and cultural identity in England.