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 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

We used to worry about online chat rooms where it was unclear who was really behind the screen name.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 16, 2025

Almost immediately, I saw her screen name, Stacyface.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 26, 2024

Judge Nicholas Garaufis ruled that the witness, who prosecutors say “occupied a prominent position within the online, alt-right community,” will be identified by just a screen name at Douglass Mackey’s trial this month.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 19, 2023

Leslie doesn’t know him well, and I can’t find a memory of giving a screen name to him.

From "Every Day" by David Levithan