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 Removing professional athletes and a couple of Hollywood personalities who once called Cleveland home, the contemporary list of recognizable forenames is essentially narrowed to a single person: Tamir. Phillip Morris, cleveland.com, 31 May 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for forename
Noun
  • Never underestimate the power of a cute nickname to change hearts and minds.
    Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 Apr. 2026
  • But my favorite Commanders selection was Allen, a durable and powerful runner with good vision and one of the finest nicknames in sports.
    Sam Warren, New York Times, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • She and others who spoke with CNN for this story asked only to use their first name for privacy reasons.
    Tim Lister, CNN Money, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Due to a reporting error, an earlier version of this story misspelled Nahida Bristy’s first name.
    Dan Sullivan, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Forename.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/forename. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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