There are two distinct types of surnames - monogentic and polygenetic. Monogenetic surnames are those which have a single origin - often being derived from just one original bearer or family of bearers at one particular place and time. Patronymics - from given name of the father or a clan. Localities - from names of places where a man lived, or where he came from. Occupational - from rank or occupation.
Patronymics is the oldest type of Western surnames and is found in almost all European countries.
However, most patronymics were formed by adding a suffix. Surnames that are derived from place names can be further divided into two broad categories - topographic names and habitation names. Occupational surnames are fascinating to trace, but in the Middle Ages few people pursued a specialized occupation as is done today. So while a surname might be from an occupation, it can be difficult to determine the first ancestor who established it as a hereditary one. Status names, often called occupational names, were in most cases from the name originally borne by a servant of the dignitary mentioned, such as King, Bishop, or Prior.