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
  • To an uninformed voter, the nickname might suggest that Ehr is of Hispanic descent.
    — Michael Vasquez, Miami Herald, 21 Oct. 2026
  • All of the Slow Horses (a not-so-affectionate nickname for Slough House employees), past and present, are targeted, and Sid goes to River for help.
    — Alison Herman, Variety, 21 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Thomas is his father’s first name (Luke’s full name is Thomas Luther Bryan) and Boyer is his mom Caroline’s maiden name.
    — Lia Beck, PEOPLE, 19 Oct. 2026
  • At the Hollywood Bowl, Miley hit a number of firsts — first time performing at the Bowl, first time performing much of her set list, first time hitting the stage in many years, first time going by her first name only at a show.
    — Althea Legaspi, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Forename.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/forename. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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