forename

noun

ˈfȯr-ˌnām How to pronounce forename (audio)
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
  1. nickname
  2. first name
Noun
  • In 2012, Holler launched Rubinski Works (based on Rubi, a nickname her dad gave her) as a graphic design and photography business, with a side gig selling her wares at small pop-ups.
    — Kelly Ryan Kegans, Midwest Living, 8 Aug. 2026
  • The film’s title refers to Ketty’s nickname in the Sicilian dialect.
    — Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 8 Aug. 2026
Definition of nickname
Noun
  • Not only was Langdon stealing medication to fuel his secret opioid addiction—but his first name was Frank.
    — Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 11 Aug. 2026
  • The tape begins with Stewart joking that Oliver wouldn't be able to use his first name if he's hired because the show already has one Jon.
    — Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of first name

Browse Nearby Words

foremothers
forename
forenamed
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Cite this Entry

“Forename.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/forename. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on forename

Nglish: Translation of forename for Spanish Speakers

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