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name

appellation
[C] Countable
pl: namespast: namedpp: nameding: namingcomp: more namesup: most name

The concept of a name serves as a primary linguistic anchor, transforming an anonymous entity into a distinct identity. In social interactions, the act of naming establishes a boundary between the self and the other, creating a permanent reference point for memory and communication. Beyond mere identification, names often carry cultural, familial, or spiritual weight, acting as vessels for heritage and expectation. The transition from naming an object to naming a person reflects a shift from simple categorization to the granting of individual agency and social status.

Countable as a noun.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon in a gray open-plan office, Sarah is staring at a spreadsheet while Mark is hiding in the breakroom.
Mark

David's tripping. He wants me to name every single asset in this folder by EOD.

Mark
Sarah
Sarah

Sucks for you. I'm currently ghosting him until my latte kicks in.

💡
Mark uses the slang 'tripping' to describe David's unreasonable request and the verb 'name' meaning to identify/specify assets. Sarah uses 'ghosting' (ignoring someone) and 'kicks in' (starts to take effect), reflecting her exhausted, avoidant state.

Meanings

Nounappellation

A word or set of words by which a person, animal, place, or thing is known.

"Please write your full name at the top of the page."

Collocations & Compounds

full name

the complete legal name

Please enter your full name.

given name

the first name provided at birth

Her given name is Elizabeth.

family name

the surname shared by family members

Smith is a common family name.

brand name

the trademarked name of a product

He only buys high-end brand names.

maiden name

the surname a woman had before marriage

She decided to keep her maiden name.

Phrasal Verbs

name after

to give someone the name of another person

I was named after my grandfather.

Idioms & Sayings

call someone names

insult someone by using rude labels

The bullies used to call him names in middle school.

Related Words

Last Updated: June 8, 2026Report an Error