WordGarden.ioname
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /nˈeɪm/
US
- /ˈneɪm/
Meanings
Noun
a word or phrase used to identify a person, place, thing, or idea
reputation, fame, or recognized public standing
Verb
to give, state, or identify by a particular name
to officially choose or designate someone for a role or position
Beyond the definition
A "name" is more than just the word we use to call someone. It is how we identify a person, place, or thing. Your own name tells people who you are, and a place's name can carry a sense of its history. The word can also mean reputation. Someone may be given a name at birth, but they can also make a name for themselves by doing something well. Whether it means a simple label or public respect, calling someone's name is also a way of recognizing them.
The word "name" is the basic way we identify a person, place, or thing, helping us tell one from another. Parents give a child a name, cities and rivers have names, and objects are known by their names too. But the meaning goes beyond simple labels. "Name" often refers to reputation or fame. A chef, writer, or athlete can build a name through skill and hard work, gaining respect and public attention. In business, a company's name can also stand for its brand, bringing certain ideas, quality, or trust to mind.
We also use "name" in common phrases about authority and truth. To act "in the name of" someone or something is to act for them or with their power. If something exists "in name only," the title is there, but the real thing is weak or missing. The word can also suggest honor and character, as in the phrase "a good name," which means a good reputation. In the end, whether it points to identity, public respect, or official standing, "name" is a small word with a wide role in how we understand people and the world around us.
Examples
- 1
Introductions
What's your name?
- 2
Forms
Please write your full name at the top of the form.
- 3
Personal names
Her first name is Maya, and her family name is Singh.
- 4
Forgetting
I can never remember the name of that restaurant.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Translation
Do you know the English name for this vegetable?
- Patternname for + thing
the word used for it
- 6
Family naming
The baby was named Leo after his grandfather.
- Patternnamed after + person
given the same name as that person
- 7
Files
The file is saved under a different name.
- Patternunder a name
using that name
- 8
Recognition
I know her by name, but we have never spoken.
- Phraseknow someone by name
know who they are, but not know them personally
- 9
Appointment
They named Sofia as the new team leader.
- Patternname + person as + role
officially choose or announce them for that role
- 10
Reputation
The hotel has a good name for friendly service.
- Phrasea good name
a good reputation
- 11
Professional reputation
He made a name for himself as a young designer.
- Phrasemake a name for yourself
become known and respected
- 12
Wide selection
You name it, and they probably sell it.
- Phraseyou name it
anything you can think of
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- full name
- first name
- last name
- brand name
Word family
Explore
- proper noun
- identity
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- namenounverb
Forms
- namedpast tenseverbnoun
- namespluralnounverb
- naming-ing formverbnoun