nickname
15 synonyms and 0 antonyms for nickname, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An informal, often affectionate or descriptive name used instead of someone's real name.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use nickname
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English an ekename ("an additional name"), which was misheard and re-divided as "a nekename" — the same kind of slip that gave us "an apron" from "a napron".
Full origin of nickname →Frequently asked questions
What does “nickname” mean?
The word “nickname” means an informal, often affectionate or descriptive name used instead of someone's real name. In plain terms, a casual alternative name for someone or something, usually based on a trait or joke.
How do you pronounce “nickname”?
“Nickname” is pronounced NIHK-naym (/ˈnɪkneɪm/ in IPA).
How do you use “nickname” in a sentence?
Here is “nickname” used in a sentence: “His nickname at school was "Ginger" because of his hair.”
What is another word for “nickname”?
Words with a similar meaning to “nickname” include byname, moniker, nick, to-name, sobriquet and handle.
What part of speech is “nickname”?
Depending on how it is used, “nickname” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “nickname” come from?
The word “nickname” comes from Middle English. From Middle English an ekename ("an additional name"), which was misheard and re-divided as "a nekename" — the same kind of slip that gave us "an apron" from "a napron".
Is “nickname” a common word?
“Nickname” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “nickname” have?
“Nickname” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an informal, often affectionate or descriptive name used instead of someone's real name.
What is the difference between a nickname and a pseudonym?
A "nickname" is an informal name used alongside someone's real name, often affectionate or descriptive. A "pseudonym" is a false name chosen to conceal a person's true identity, such as a pen name used by an author. A nickname adds to the real name, while a pseudonym replaces and hides it.
What is the difference between a nickname and a surname?
A "surname" is a person's official family name, shared with relatives and used in legal records. A "nickname" is an informal, unofficial name used instead of a real name. A surname is fixed and formal, whereas a nickname is casual and often given by others.
What is the difference between a nickname and a pet name?
Both are affectionate, informal names, but a "pet name" is usually private and used between close friends, family, or partners. A "nickname" is broader and may be used publicly, including by acquaintances or the wider community.