code name

¹

[kohd neym]

noun

1. a name assigned to conceal the real identity of a person, as a spy, or to conceal the existence or purpose of a plan, military operation, etc.

2. Also called code phrase. a word or phrase assigned a meaning understood only by those who are secretly informed of it.

code-name

²

[kohd-neym]

verb (used with object)

code-named, code-naming 

1. to assign a code name to.

Word History and Origins

Origin of code name¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Origin of code name²

First recorded in 1955–60