given name

noun

Synonyms of given namenext
: a name that precedes one's surname
especially : first name

Synonyms of given name

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Examples of given name in a Sentence

everyone calls me Jack, but my given name is John
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
They haven’t been given names yet, but the babies have started recognizing their carers. — Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2026 Lil Baby, a 2022 Grammy winner whose given name is Dominique Jones, performed the night of the game at the Grand nightclub in San Francisco before heading to the Dahlia Lounge, where strippers entertained on the main floor. — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026 Over the years, many of the variations in preparation for our basic menu items were given names, usually by the customers who frequently ordered their burgers that way. — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 5 Sep. 2026 Poe Many parents with a long or complicated surname—and even those without—like to consider a short, one-syllable given name as a balance. — Anna Earl, Parents, 5 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for given name

Word History

First Known Use

1717, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of given name was in 1717

Rhymes for given name

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Browse Nearby Words

given
given name
givenness
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Cite this Entry

“Given name.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/given%20name. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

given name

noun
: forename

More from Merriam-Webster on given name

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about given name

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