Nickname

Definition

Nickname is a noun that refers to an informal or affectionate name given to a person, place, or thing as an alternative to or in addition to its proper name; it can also function as a verb meaning to give such a name.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈnɪk.neɪm/
• Respelling: NICK-name

British English

• IPA: /ˈnɪk.neɪm/
• Respelling: NICK-name

Etymology

Middle English: from Old English ēacename ‘additional name’ (ēaca ‘addition’ + name), later reinterpreted by misdivision from “an ekename” to “a nickname.”

Derivatives

• nicknamed (verb)
• nicknaming (verb)

Synonyms

• moniker
• byname
• handle
• sobriquet
• alias

Antonyms

• proper name
• given name

Usage

The noun "nickname" is commonly used to refer to an informal or affectionate name assigned to someone or something. For example, "Her nickname among classmates was 'Sunshine,'" or "They gave the car the nickname 'Old Faithful.' As a verb: "They nicknamed the new puppy 'Sparky.'"

Related Terms

• Moniker: An alternative name or alias.
• Byname: A descriptive or additional name.
• Alias: An assumed or false name.
• Sobriquet: A descriptive name or epithet.
• Handle: A nickname used especially in informal contexts.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An informal or affectionate name given to a person, place, or thing – used to express familiarity or endearment.
  • Example: "Her nickname at the office was 'Ace.'"
• An alternative name used for brevity or humor – often shorter or more memorable than the proper name.
  • Example: "His nickname in the band was 'Flash.'"

Verb

• To give someone or something a nickname – to assign an informal or affectionate name.
  • Example: "They nicknamed their coach 'The General.'"