screen name

American  

Or screenname

noun

Digital Technology.

1. a unique sequence of characters that a person chooses to use for identification purposes when interacting with others online, as in computer games, instant messaging, or forums.

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Etymology

Origin of screen name

First recorded in 1920–25, for an earlier sense

Example Sentences

The trader goes by a default screen name made up of a blockchain address, a long string of numbers and letters.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 5, 2026

"The prize money is too little. It's difficult to make a living playing professionally, full-time," former pro eSports football player Monaco said, asking to use his screen name to avoid online abuse.

From Barron's • Oct. 28, 2025

Almost immediately, I saw her screen name, Stacyface.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 26, 2024

It booted comedian Kathy Griffin after she changed her Twitter screen name to Elon Musk.

From Washington Post • Nov. 11, 2022

As she scrolled down her buddy list she saw Ned's screen name.

From "Case of the Sneaky Snowman: Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew, #5" by Carolyn Keene