pseudonym
Americannoun
noun
Usage
What is a pseudonym? A pseudonym is a false or fictitious name, especially one used by an author.When an author uses a pseudonym, it can also be called a pen name or a nom de plume.There are many reasons an author may choose to use a pseudonym instead of their own name, such as to avoid controversy or to create a persona. Many women authors throughout history have used a male or gender-neutral pseudonym to get their work published due to bias against women writers. A famous example is Mary Ann Evans, who used the pseudonym George Eliot.The word pseudonym can refer to a fake or false name used by anyone, not just writers. It’s typically used so a person can remain anonymous. In legal proceedings, the pseudonyms John Doe, Jane Doe, Richard Roe, and Jane Roe are used in when a person’s name is being kept anonymous. Such names can also be called anonyms.Example: A lot of people use pseudonyms when posting controversial opinions online.
Other Word Forms
- pseudonymity noun
Etymology
Origin of pseudonym
First recorded in 1840–50; from Greek pseudṓnymon “false name”; pseud-, -onym
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.
"This is the right place to ask for help in finding a person to marry," Aisha, using a pseudonym, told AFP inside Northern Halal Marriage online matchmaking office.
From Barron's
He adopted a pseudonym because he was writing about his work “in an inner-city hospital and in a prison, and I therefore needed an extra layer of disguise,” he says.
"It's inhuman to live like this, a prisoner in your own home," Ana told AFP using a pseudonym, as do her husband and son.
From Barron's
More than a pseudonym, these poets and writers had different backgrounds and influences.
From Los Angeles Times
Sunshine is not her real name - she has asked to use a pseudonym because of fears she could be targeted for her actions.
From BBC
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
