Synonyms for

Nickname

Verb / ˈnɪˌkneɪm / Another word for nickname — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a name that is different from someone's actual name that is given to them as a term of endearment or as a shortened form of their name

Synonyms & similar words

moniker cognomen byname soubriquet dub sobriquet moniker handle label tag epithet appellation byname cognomen alias pseudonym sobriquet title denomination designation identity characterization description representation

Synonyms by register

Formal

appellation designation sobriquet

Informal

moniker handle alias tag

Literary

epithet byname

Antonyms

given name birth name legal name full name real name official name

Common collocations

  • give someone a nickname
  • go by a nickname
  • nickname for
  • popular nickname
  • childhood nickname
  • nickname meaning
  • nickname generator

Word family

noun nickname
verb nicknamer

Usage note

A nickname is an informal substitute for a person's real name. It is often used affectionately or humorously, but can also be used pejoratively. Avoid using nicknames in formal settings unless the person explicitly prefers it.

Example sentences

  1. My nickname is 'Buddy' because I am friendly with everyone.
  2. Her nickname is 'Shorty' because she is the shortest in our class.
  3. My grandfather's nickname is 'Papa' because he is like a father to me.
  4. His nickname is 'Ace' because he is really good at playing cards.
  5. My nickname is 'Sunshine' because I always have a smile on my face.

Quotes

  • 'I have a nickname for him. I call him 'Dead Man.'' - Jack Nicholson
  • 'My nickname is Mom, but my full name is Mom Mom Mom Mom Mom Mom.' - Mia Hamm
  • 'I got the nickname Spitfire for a reason - I burned inside to play volleyball.' - Kerri Walsh Jennings

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words