Personal names are the identifiers given to individuals, allowing them to be recognized and distinguished from one another. These names often consist of a first name, also known as a given name, and a last name, or surname. In many cultures, personal names can also include middle names, which may honor relatives or carry special meanings. The significance of personal names varies across cultures and can reflect heritage, family history, or social status. Some names have specific meanings or are derived from languages, such as Latin or Greek. Additionally, naming conventions can differ, with some cultures using patronymics or matronymics, where names are based on the father's or mother's name, respectively.