Icelandic surnames are typically patronymic, meaning they are derived from the father's first name. For example, if a father's name is Jón, his son might have the surname Jónsson (meaning "son of Jón"), while his daughter would have the surname Jónsdóttir (meaning "daughter of Jón"). This system reflects the lineage rather than a family name passed down through generations. Unlike many cultures, Icelanders do not have fixed family surnames. Instead, each generation creates a new surname based on the parent's name. This unique naming convention emphasizes individual identity and family connections, making Icelandic surnames distinct from traditional surnames found in other countries.