true name
The concept of a "true name" is prevalent in fantasy, mythology, and personal identity, often signifying power, authenticity, or preferred identity.
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Definition
C1Fantasy and Mythology
(literary, folklore)The secret or original name of a being or object that is believed to hold power over it.
Example
- In many fantasy stories, knowing a dragon's true name gives one the ability to summon or control it.
C2Spiritual and Religious
(religious, spiritual)The authentic or divine name of a deity or spiritual being, believed to represent its true essence.
B2Personal Identity
(LGBTQ, social)A person's preferred name that may differ from their legal name, reflecting their true identity.
Example
- After coming out, Alex asked everyone to use their true name instead of the one on their birth certificate.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "true name":
legal namenew namegiven namegood namefull namecommon namefirst nametrivial namescreen namesecond nameancestral namebad namegeneric nametrade namefamily namepet namevernacular namebig name