I have a very common russian surname what does it mean
Its Smirnova or Smirnoff(male version)
I would also love to find out my fiancees surname which is Chaban
Thank you
=]
vote up1vote down

Replies

Smirnov is probably from one of the many places that bear that name in Russia. You'll find the origin of Chaban at http://www.ancestry.com/facts/Chaban-family-history.ashx.
vote up1vote down
Reportedly the second commonest Russian surname. It is said to be from the word smirnyi, meaning "quiet, meek, docile".
vote up1vote down