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Namesake: meaning, definitions and examples

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namesake

 

[ ˈneɪmˌseɪk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

identity reference

A namesake is a person or thing that has the same name as another. This term is often used to refer to a person named after another person, typically a family member or a person who has had a significant impact on their life. Namesakes can also refer to brands or products that share the name of a person.

Synonyms

eponym

Examples of usage

  • My grandfather's name is John, and I'm his namesake.
  • The hotel was a namesake of the famous writer who lived there.
  • She named her son after her uncle, making him a family namesake.
  • This product is a namesake of its founder.

Translations

Translations of the word "namesake" in other languages:

🇵🇹 homônimo

🇮🇳 समान नाम

🇩🇪 Namensvetter

🇮🇩 nama yang sama

🇺🇦 однодумець

🇵🇱 imiennik

🇯🇵 名の同じ人

🇫🇷 homonyme

🇪🇸 homónimo

🇹🇷 aynı isim

🇰🇷 동명이인

🇸🇦 شبيه الاسم

🇨🇿 jmenovec

🇸🇰 menovec

🇨🇳 同名者

🇸🇮 imenjak

🇮🇸 nafna

🇰🇿 аттас

🇬🇪 სახელმწიფო

🇦🇿 ad eyniləri

🇲🇽 homónimo

Etymology

The term 'namesake' stems from the combination of 'name' and the Old English word 'saca', meaning 'to speak' or 'to declare'. Its first recorded use in the English language dates back to the late 17th century, where it was used to denote a person who bears the same name as another, often with a familial or significant connection. The concept highlights the importance of names in establishing identity and legacy, often reflecting cultural practices of naming children after relatives or respected figures. Over time, the term has expanded beyond personal names to include brands and products, indicating a shared identity or heritage. The use of 'namesake' has evolved, but its fundamental meaning related to identity and recognition remains at its core.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,271, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.