Alias: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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'.

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.

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.

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'.