cryptonym

American  

[krip-tuh-nim] / ˈkrɪp tə nɪm /

noun

1. a secret name or word; a code name or code word.

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Other Word Forms

• cryptonymous adjective

Etymology

Origin of cryptonym

First recorded in 1860–65; crypt- ( def. ) + -onym ( def. ); probably modeled on French cryptonyme

Example Sentences

The foundation’s cryptonym database compiles the true identities of code-named CIA assets.

From Salon

“WUSALINE could refer to Zapata,” Simpich, the cryptonym expert, commented.

From Salon

In a 1964 report, Devine is identified by the cryptonym WUBRINY/1.

From Salon

It seemed like a dumb cryptonym to me, but Ishmael was somehow amused.

From Nature

Salameh had a CIA cryptonym, “MJTRUST/2” as a clandestine source, but he was never a controlled agent — and therein lies the heart of this tale.

From Washington Post