[b]I used to have problems filling out forms because I didn't know the difference between first, middle and last name. For those having the same problem, this is for you.

Last name is father's family name or surname. John
David Smith: Smith is Father's name. Father
was, say Charles Smith. In business
relationships, he would be called Mr. Smith.
His wife would call him Charles.

First name is given name, what your
Mother or sister may call you (NOT a
nickname, tho). John David Smith: First
name John.

Middle name is second given name, if any.
John David Smith: David is middle name.
Your Mom might use it when she is REALLY
angry at you: JOHN DAVID, you get over
here to me, RIGHT NOW! lol
Ordinarily not used.

I was raised Roman Catholic, and have FOUR
names! First name. Middle name.
Confirmation Name. Last name. :-))
Usually middle names are not used, unless
necessary to differentiate between two
people with same name: John D. (for David)
Smith vs John H. (for Henry) Smith, if both
in the same class in school, or on the same
list.
Hope this helps.[/b]

Nice one

Awesome Explanation but is it bad or awkward to give your child a Compound Surname. I want to name my son James as his first and Seyi as Middle, my name is Mark Thomas can I name my son James Seyi Mark-Thomas or its wrong

so insightful.

In western countries, your first name is your surname ND your last name is your given name