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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for forename
Noun
  • The character’s nickname, Big Pussy, is rumored to have originated during his time as a cat burglar.
    Dennis Romero, NBC news, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Thankfully renamed from the original French nickname of Hog Island, this sprawling island park is bigger and older than Central Park.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • The chant, which deployed Modi’s first name, quickly spawned the kind of meme-like variations typical of viral reels.
    Asim Ali, Time, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Not many athletes get the first name treatment in Pittsburgh.
    Josh Yohe, New York Times, 31 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Forename.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/forename. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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