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Alias

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A false or assumed identity, often used to conceal one’s true identity.
2. A name that a person uses instead of their real name, typically for deceptive or legal purposes.
3. A pseudonym used by someone, especially in cases of authorship, acting, or criminal activities.

History and Origin

The word “alias” comes from the Latin alias, meaning “at another time” or “otherwise.” It was originally used to indicate an alternative name or identity that someone might use in place of their real name. Over time, it became associated with the use of false identities, particularly in legal or criminal contexts. The use of aliases became more prominent with the rise of pseudonyms in literary and artistic circles, as well as in the criminal world where individuals sought to hide their true identities.

Detailed Explanation

An “alias” refers to a name or identity that is different from one’s real or original name, often used for purposes of anonymity, concealment, or protection. People may use aliases for various reasons, such as hiding from the law, avoiding recognition, or creating a persona for professional or artistic endeavors. For example, authors, musicians, and actors may adopt aliases to distinguish their public persona from their private lives, while criminals often use aliases to evade detection or prosecution.

Aliases are common in certain professions, but their use can also raise legal or ethical concerns, especially if they are used to commit fraud, identity theft, or other illicit activities. In legal terms, an alias may refer to a name that is known by the authorities, but is not the person’s legal name.

Example Sentences

1. The author published under an alias to protect her privacy.
2. He was known by his alias while working undercover in the investigation.
3. The criminal used several aliases to avoid being caught by the police.
4. She revealed her true name after using an alias for many years in the entertainment industry.
5. The suspect’s alias was discovered during the investigation.
6. The artist adopted an alias to separate their personal life from their public image.
7. The witness provided the alias of the person who had been at the scene of the crime.
8. In the novel, the protagonist uses an alias to escape from danger.
9. He entered the country under an alias to avoid detection by immigration authorities.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Pseudonym – A fictitious name used by an author or artist instead of their real name.
2. Nom de plume – A pen name, typically used by writers to hide their true identity.
3. Stage name – A name adopted by performers, such as actors or musicians, to separate their professional persona from their personal life.
4. Fictitious name – A made-up name, often used for deceptive or legal purposes.
5. Incognito – A state of being disguised or using an alias to remain unrecognized.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Identity – The fact of being who or what a person is, often contrasted with the use of an alias.
2. Evasion – The act of avoiding something, often through the use of an alias in a criminal context.
3. Disguise – To alter one’s appearance or identity, similar to the use of an alias for concealment.
4. Impersonation – The act of pretending to be someone else, often involving the use of an alias.
5. Falsification – The act of altering information or identity, often related to the use of aliases for deceitful purposes.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Cover name – A name used to cover a person’s true identity, often in espionage or undercover work.
2. Code name – A name used to represent a person, often in secretive or classified contexts.
3. Alter ego – A second self or personality, sometimes represented by an alias.
4. Mask – To hide one’s identity, similar to adopting an alias for anonymity.
5. Cloak – A metaphorical covering, often used when referring to using an alias to hide one’s real identity.

Antonyms

1. Real name
2. True identity
3. Authenticity
4. Public identity
5. Genuine name