given name

noun

: a name that precedes one's surname
especially : first name

Examples of given name in a Sentence

everyone calls me Jack, but my given name is John
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At a community celebration, the lions were given names rooted in tradition and community significance—Chisama Kabobole, after a revered chief; Katimbilwa Mali, honoring a respected sub-chieftainess; and Sufina, after the NTCP’s environmental education program. Sarah Kingdom, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2025 Lueck said this year the couple’s chicks were given names — Ray, Dandelion, Benny (for Jack Benny) and Genesee (named for the theater) — with a Waukegan artistic bent. Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 20 Aug. 2025 Before Wales’ women’s teams were given names on the back of their shirts in 2019, Fishlock’s was the one people could reel off, a byword for Welsh women’s football. Megan Feringa, New York Times, 10 July 2025 Recent options at An’s Dry Cleaning, which are given names related to fabric, included Canvas (olive oil and rosemary), Broken Heart Brocade (chocolate, brownie and raspberry jam) and Melton (mango and peach). Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for given name

Word History

First Known Use

1717, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of given name was in 1717

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Cite this Entry

“Given name.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/given%20name. Accessed 27 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

given name

noun

More from Merriam-Webster on given name

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