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Soubriquet: meaning, definitions and examples

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soubriquet

 

[ ˈsoʊbrɪkeɪ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

nickname usage

A sobriquet is a nickname or an affectionate or humorous name given to a person. Unlike a formal name, a sobriquet often reflects a person's personality or an aspect of their character. Combining a degree of familiarity and creativity, sobriquets offer insight into the social relationships between individuals. They are particularly common in literary contexts and cultural references. The use of sobriquets can also denote endearment or a special bond between the person delivering it and the recipient.

Synonyms

alias, epithet, moniker, nickname, pseudonym

Examples of usage

  • He was known by his sobriquet 'The Whiz' for his exceptional speed.
  • In literature, many characters are given sobriquets that highlight their traits.
  • Her friends affectionately called her 'Sunny' as a sobriquet.
  • The boxer had a famous sobriquet that was used in promotional materials.

Translations

Translations of the word "soubriquet" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apelido

🇮🇳 उपनाम

🇩🇪 Spitzname

🇮🇩 julukan

🇺🇦 псевдонім

🇵🇱 przezwisko

🇯🇵 あだ名

🇫🇷 surnom

🇪🇸 apodo

🇹🇷 lakap

🇰🇷 별명

🇸🇦 لقب

🇨🇿 přezdívka

🇸🇰 priezvisko

🇨🇳 绰号

🇸🇮 vzdevek

🇮🇸 gæludugga

🇰🇿 лақап

🇬🇪 ჰქვია

🇦🇿 lakin

🇲🇽 apodo

Word origin

The term 'sobriquet' originates from French, deriving from the verb 'soubriquer,' which means 'to call by a nickname' or 'to add a name.' The word was adopted into English in the late 17th century, reflecting the French affection for playful or descriptive identifiers. Over time, its use in English has expanded to encompass a wide range of informal titles or nicknames that express familiarity or endearment. Initially seen in literary and social contexts, sobriquets have found their place in modern usage, ranging from the workplace to friendships. The evolution of this term illustrates the dynamic nature of language and how cultural exchanges between languages can enrich vocabulary and expression.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,514, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.