screen name

American  

Or screenname

noun

Digital Technology.

1. a unique sequence of characters that a person chooses to use for identification purposes when interacting with others online, as in computer games, instant messaging, or forums.

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Etymology

Origin of screen name

First recorded in 1920–25, for an earlier sense

Example Sentences

The trader goes by a default screen name made up of a blockchain address, a long string of numbers and letters.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 5, 2026

"The prize money is too little. It's difficult to make a living playing professionally, full-time," former pro eSports football player Monaco said, asking to use his screen name to avoid online abuse.

From Barron's • Oct. 28, 2025

I spent my remaining hours at home in front of our boxy PC, waiting to hear the chime as the quarterback’s screen name popped up.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 4, 2024

Stewart said the Forest Service appreciates Wayne’s significant legacy, which included building the fort at Fort Wayne, Indiana, and inspiring the screen name of Hollywood icon John Wayne.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 2, 2023

The computer boots up, and then I'm online and I've got a messenger window open, and I tap in Kenny Temple's screen name, Gandolf375.

From "Things Not Seen" by Andrew Clements