French word

surnom

Pronunciation

IPA/syʁnɔ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine nounnickname

Example

On m'a donné un surnom au collège.

I was given a nickname in middle school.

Illustration for surnom (nickname)

More examples

Il utilise toujours son surnom sur les réseaux sociaux.

He always uses his nickname on social media.

Core concept

A second name placed beside or in place of the official name to identify someone informally.

Common phrases

  • donner un surnom

    give a nickname

  • recevoir un surnom

    receive a nickname

  • avoir un surnom

    have a nickname

Similar words

prénom: The given name assigned at birth and used in daily life.
nom de famille: The inherited family name appearing on official records.
pseudo: A self-selected name used for identification online or in games.
sobriquet: A brief nickname expressing fondness or mild teasing.

Definition in French

Appellation familière et non officielle employée à la place du nom propre pour marquer la proximité, la moquerie ou une caractéristique.

Word origin

The noun was inherited from Old French surnom, itself based on Latin supernomen, an additional name beside the personal name.

Usage tips

  • Surnom can be affectionate or mocking, so its appropriateness depends on the relationship and the person's acceptance of the name.

Other meanings

  • pet namenoun

Related words

Word lists with this word