Plural of smith, referring to metalworkers who shape metal by heating and hammering, or people who work skillfully at a particular craft.
From Old English smið, related to smītan (to smite, strike). Proto-Germanic smithaz originally meant 'skilled worker,' with the metal-working specialization developing later. The word appears in many surnames like Smith, Goldsmith, and Blacksmith.
Smith became the most common surname in English because metalworking was essential in every medieval community - every village needed someone who could make and repair tools, horseshoes, and weapons. The word's connection to 'smite' reveals the violent, powerful nature of metalworking, transforming raw materials through controlled force.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.