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

Example Sentences

The code name for the massive operation to catch Miller, in the summer and fall of 1984, was “Whipworm,” a reference to an intestinal parasite.

From Los Angeles Times

His secret service code name is “Legend.”

From Los Angeles Times

Initially going by the code name Asgardian, Kaplan was introduced as a member of the Young Avengers whose magical powers include blasting energy and manipulating reality.

From Los Angeles Times

When both Germany and the Soviet Union invaded the country in September 1939, Zawacka joined the underground resistance, taking the code name Zo and building an intelligence network made up nearly entirely of women that covered the size of Wales.

From BBC

The Israelis used the code name Philadelphi for the strip, while Egyptian officials call it Salah Al Din.

From New York Times