code name

noun

: a designation having a coded and usually secret meaning
code-name transitive verb

Examples of code name in a Sentence

Every secret agent has a code name.
Recent Examples on the Web That’s the secret code name for Zuckerberg’s bare-bones version of an imitation Twitter. Dave Lieber, Dallas News, 21 Aug. 2023 Lotus has announced that its electric sedan, previously known by its code name of Type 133, will be called the Emeya. Caleb Miller, Car and Driver, 29 Aug. 2023 The companies also used nonbusiness email accounts, encrypted messaging platforms and code names to communicate about the scheme, prosecutors allege. Minnah Arshad, USA TODAY, 22 Aug. 2023 When reading potty-training books with kids, experts advise caregivers to always use the actual anatomical names for body parts, since code names or nicknames can make children feel shame around their bodies. Marisa Lascala, Good Housekeeping, 28 Mar. 2023 Identifying himself only by code names like B and Ramon Garcia, Mr. Hanssen turned over sensitive information said to include specific satellite intelligence collection capabilities. Peter Baker, New York Times, 5 June 2023 Along with his colleagues, Oppenheimer was tasked with developing the world’s first nuclear weapons under the code name the Manhattan Project. Senator Edward J. Markey, Scientific American, 27 July 2023 The code names allow the U.S. government to focus various elements of an investigation, or a broader interagency process, toward one goal, officials say. Josh Meyer, USA TODAY, 17 July 2023 Prieto's secret code name was Harmony, while Jordan went by Yahweh. Effie Orfanides, Peoplemag, 26 June 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'code name.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of code name was in 1867

Dictionary Entries Near code name

Cite this Entry

“Code name.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/code%20name. Accessed 1 Oct. 2023.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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