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Synonyms

pet name

American  

noun

pet names plural
  1. a name or a term of address used to express affection for a person, thing, etc.


Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

Etymology

Origin of pet name

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Outside is a bench dedicated to "Jennie Wren" – the family's pet name for her daughter – where Ms Moore often sits to reflect and allow memories from happier times to return.

From BBC Oct. 25, 2024

Most members of my family have their own pet name: My mother used to go by Moni, my niece is Bubaloo, I have Pinky Aunties and Sweetu Didis and Bubbly Uncles.

From Slate Jul. 23, 2024

Under her relentless barrage of attention — including the pet name that gives the series its title — his life spirals out of control, and past traumas are unearthed.

From Los Angeles Times May 9, 2024

He’ll botch a gig over his annoyance at not being allowed to call a stranger by a pet name she reserves for her closest friend.

From Salon Feb. 9, 2024

“Polly-girl” had been her father’s pet name for her, and it angered her to hear it pour so carelessly from the mouth of this unpleasant young man.

From "Copper Sun" by Sharon M. Draper

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