Matronymics is a naming convention where an individual's surname is derived from their mother's name. This practice contrasts with patronymics, which are based on the father's name. Matronymics can be found in various cultures and may reflect lineage, heritage, or social status. In some societies, matronymics are used to emphasize maternal lineage, especially in matriarchal cultures. For example, in certain Indigenous communities, a child's last name may be taken from the mother's family, highlighting the importance of maternal connections. This naming system can also be seen in historical contexts, such as with the Icelandic naming tradition, where a child's surname may include the mother's first name.