Definition of forenamenext
as in nickname
a name that is placed before one's family name a long string of forenames was given to the latest addition to the royal family

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of forename Alan, whose forename appeared in initial reports with its Turkish spelling, Aylan, died with his brother, Galip, 5; their mother, Rihan; and two other refugees when a dinghy carrying 14 migrants toward the Greek island of Kos capsized. — New York Times, 13 Mar. 2020
Recent Examples of Synonyms for forename
Noun
  • Thomas, who goes by the nickname Danny Tommo, is a longtime associate of far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson.
    — Jill Lawless, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026
  • Often clad in leather or a simple singlet, revealing his arms-length collection of tattoos, Angry Anderson always looked hard as nails and as angry as his nickname.
    — Lars Brandle, Billboard, 23 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • But the specific version — the daily call, first name on the sheet every morning.
    — Lane Brown, Vulture, 23 Sep. 2026
  • In another part of Chicago, a 48-year-old man named Jose — who only wanted to be identified by his first name — remains afraid to leave home.
    — Andrew Carter, Chicago Tribune, 20 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Forename.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/forename. Accessed 27 Sep. 2026.

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