definition
strict definition
nickname
An informal, popularly used name for an entity, with common use supported by a widely recognized publication.
A nickname is an affectionate, humorous, or informal name which is bestowed on an entity by popular use, often within the object's proximity. The common use of a nickname should be cited in a widely recognized publication before it is listed in connection with its object.
Popular use gives the name its identifying role. A private invention with no established use is different from a nickname recognized by other people.
A full name gives an unabridged official form, while a nickname can be humorous or affectionate. An informal name need not be a shortened version of the official one.
Related definitions
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abbreviated name
A shortened alternative to an object's standard name, made through abbreviations or omitted words. -
alternate name
A recognized or accepted version of an object's name different from its standard name. -
full name
The unabridged official name of an entity, when its standard name is shortened. -
name
The official or most commonly recognized text identifier of an object for a given period and, where applicable, language. -
official legal name
The full name of an entity registered with government bodies, including any appended legal identifiers. -
sequence number
The number or letter an object carries inside the group it belongs to, when several members share one name and one address. -
tag
A generic name based on a predefined standard or derivative of multiple standards.