given name

noun

Definition of given namenext
as in first name
a name that is placed before one's family name everyone calls me Jack, but my given name is John

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 given name Pattie Gonia, whose given name is Wyn Wiley, is a drag queen based in Bend, Oregon. — Brittany Peterson, Fortune, 12 June 2026 Digital Underground originated in Oakland, California, in 1987, founded by Shock G (given name Gregory Jacobs), Chopmaster J (Jimi Dright) and Kenny-K (Kenneth Waters), and released their first album in 1990. — Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 28 Apr. 2026 The seven kittens were given names meant to honor where they were born. — Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 15 Apr. 2026 Choosing a last name or surname as a first name (or given name) is not a new tradition. — Lisa Milbrand, Parents, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for given name
Recent Examples of Synonyms for given name
  1. first name
  2. nickname
Noun
  • The victim's wife, who asked to be identified only by her first name, Marlene, and did not want her face shown, said she was outraged by what happened.
    — Peter D'Oench, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026
  • They are identified by their first names only because of Vietnamese laws protecting vulnerable minors.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026
Definition of first name
Noun
  • In theory, Daniels could sue LSU for misappropriation of his right of publicity, which forbids the unauthorized commercial use of a college athlete’s name, image, likeness, signature, voice, nickname and other identifying traits.
    — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Some people go so far as to repeat the nickname incredulously, or to make fun of it.
    — Jacobina Martin, Washington Post, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of nickname

Browse Nearby Words

given in (to)
given name
given names
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Cite this Entry

“Given name.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/given%20name. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on given name

Nglish: Translation of given name for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about given name

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