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

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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 Removing professional athletes and a couple of Hollywood personalities who once called Cleveland home, the contemporary list of recognizable forenames is essentially narrowed to a single person: Tamir. Phillip Morris, cleveland.com, 31 May 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for forename
Noun
  • That jacket’s colorful nickname, and its eye-watering valuation, trace back to a subculture that placed premiums on certain Polo collections long before the present vogue.
    Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 1 Mar. 2026
  • The shape of cup and saucer vine has led to its many nicknames, including cathedral bells and monastery bells.
    Heather Bien, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The reason stores use first names — or first names and last initials — on name tags is to balance two reasonable, but competing, requirements.
    Judith Martin, Mercury News, 25 Feb. 2026
  • Mari, another tourist who asked to go by her first name for privacy reasons, said her young family had been sheltering in their vacation rental and watching the unrest unfold outside.
    Jack Guy, CNN Money, 23 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Forename.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/forename. Accessed 3 Mar. 2026.

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