noun
Uncommon
pseudonym
SOO-duh-nihm
Pseudonym (noun) means a fake name used instead of someone's real name, especially by writers or performers. Example: “Samuel Clemens wrote under the pseudonym Mark Twain.”
noun
1
A fake name used instead of someone's real name, especially by writers or performers.
"Samuel Clemens wrote under the pseudonym Mark Twain."
"The whistleblower published the report under a pseudonym to protect her identity."
How to use pseudonym
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA made-up name someone uses instead of their real one, often to stay anonymous.
Common mistake
Not the same as an alias used for deception in crime — a pseudonym is typically for writing, art, or privacy.
Common pairings
write under a pseudonym
use a pseudonym
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Word forms
- Plural
- pseudonyms
Fill the gap
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Samuel Clemens wrote under the _____ Mark Twain.
Etymology
From Greek pseudonymos, "falsely named" — from pseudes ("false") and onoma ("name").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for pseudonym
See all rhymes for pseudonym →Frequently asked questions
What does “pseudonym” mean?
The word “pseudonym” means a fake name used instead of someone's real name, especially by writers or performers. In plain terms, a made-up name someone uses instead of their real one, often to stay anonymous.
How do you pronounce “pseudonym”?
“Pseudonym” is pronounced SOO-duh-nihm (/ˈsu.də.nɪm/ in IPA).
How do you use “pseudonym” in a sentence?
Here is “pseudonym” used in a sentence: “Samuel Clemens wrote under the pseudonym Mark Twain.”
What part of speech is “pseudonym”?
“Pseudonym” is a noun.
Where does the word “pseudonym” come from?
The word “pseudonym” comes from Greek. From Greek pseudonymos, "falsely named" — from pseudes ("false") and onoma ("name").
Is “pseudonym” a common word?
“Pseudonym” is an uncommon word in modern English.
