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Alias Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alias

[ˈeɪliəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computer

A name or identifier that refers to a specific object, command, file, or program.

Synonyms

handle, nickname, pseudonym.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alias

Typically used in formal or legal contexts to indicate an alternate name someone uses, often for privacy or concealment.

  • The spy used an alias when traveling to different countries.
  • In the court documents, he was referred to by his alias.
nickname

Used to describe a familiar or affectionate name given to someone, often based on their characteristics or personality.

  • Her friends called her 'Speedy' because she was a fast runner.
  • His nickname in college was 'The Brain' due to his academic excellence.
pseudonym

Often used by writers, artists, or public figures to adopt a different name for their work. Can also be used to ensure privacy or maintain anonymity.

  • The famous author wrote under a pseudonym to avoid public attention.
  • Many bloggers use pseudonyms to protect their identity.
handle

Commonly used in the context of online usernames or social media profiles. Informal and modern.

  • What's your handle on Instagram?
  • She created a new handle for her gaming account.

Examples of usage

  • In programming, an alias can be used to refer to a variable by a different name.
  • The alias 'ls' in Unix is commonly used to list directory contents.
  • Aliases are commonly used in databases to provide alternate names for tables or columns.
Context #2 | Noun

person

A false or assumed identity, especially one used by a criminal.

Synonyms

incognito, nom de guerre, pseudonym.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alias

Used when someone uses a different name, especially in legal documents or to conceal their true identity.

  • The notorious criminal was known by the alias 'John Doe'.
  • She checked into the hotel under the alias 'Jane Smith'.
pseudonym

Used when someone, especially a writer or artist, uses a fake name to protect their true identity or to create a separate persona.

  • The famous author wrote her novels under the pseudonym 'George Eliot'.
  • Many artists and performers use a pseudonym to maintain their privacy.
incognito

Used when someone is concealing their identity, often to avoid notice or attention, especially in casual or informal situations.

  • The celebrity traveled incognito to avoid fans and paparazzi.
  • He went to the party incognito, wearing a mask and a hat.
nom de guerre

Used to refer to a pseudonym, primarily in a military or combat context, often adopted by fighters or revolutionaries.

  • The resistance fighter was known by his nom de guerre, 'Raven'.
  • Her nom de guerre during the war was 'Eagle'.

Examples of usage

  • The criminal operated under an alias to avoid detection by law enforcement.
  • Using an alias, the spy infiltrated the enemy's headquarters.
  • The author published the controversial book under an alias to protect their privacy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The TV series 'Alias' featured a spy character leading a double life under a secret identity.
  • In literature, famous characters often use aliases, like Mark Twain, who was really Samuel Clemens.
  • Superheroes frequently have aliases, such as Bruce Wayne for Batman, allowing them to protect their true identities.

Technology

  • In computer science, an alias can refer to a shortcut or another name for a file or command.
  • Email aliases allow users to create alternate addresses that direct messages to a main inbox.
  • In programming, aliasing can simplify code by allowing multiple names to reference the same entity.

Psychology

  • Using an alias can help individuals express different aspects of their personality safely.
  • Research shows that adopting an alias can provide a sense of freedom and creativity in online environments.
  • People may assume aliases to escape societal pressures or explore new identities.

Literature

  • Authors often use aliases (or pen names) to separate their work from their personal lives.
  • Famous authors like J.K. Rowling wrote under the alias Robert Galbraith to explore different genres.
  • Literary characters might adopt aliases to escape danger or present themselves differently to others.

Origin of 'alias'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'alias,' meaning 'otherwise' or 'at another time'.
  • It has been used in English since the late 14th century to indicate an alternate name.
  • In legal settings, it refers to a name by which a person is known other than their legal name.

The term 'alias' comes from the Latin word 'alius', meaning 'other' or 'another'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century. The concept of using an alias has been prevalent throughout history, especially in literature and espionage, where individuals adopt false identities for various purposes.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,360, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.