Name

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A name is a term used for identification by an external observer. Names can identify a class or category of things, or a single thing, either uniquely, or within a given context. The entity identified by a name is called its referent. A personal name identifies, not necessarily uniquely, a specific individual human. The name of a specific entity is sometimes called a proper name (although that term has a philosophical meaning as well) and is, in many cultures, part of a person's identity. In some cultures, individual names may include surnames, given names, and sometimes middle names, along with prefixes and suffixes.

Etymology

The word name comes from the Old English nama, derived from Proto-Germanic *namô, cognate with Latin nomen and Greek ὄνομα (ónoma).

Types of names

Names can be categorized into several types, including personal names, place names (toponymy), and names of objects (brand names, product names). Personal names typically consist of one or more given names and a family name (surname).

Personal names

Personal names are given to individuals and often reflect cultural significance or family history. These can include:

• Given name: The first name given to someone at birth or baptism.
• Middle name: An additional name given to a person between their given name and their surname.
• Surname: A family name passed down from one generation to the next.
• Nickname: A familiar or humorous name given to a person instead of or along with their real name.

Place names

Place names or toponyms are names given to locations and can provide insights into the geography, history, and culture of a place.

Brand and product names

Brand names are names given to a specific product or line of products by a company, while product names refer to individual items within a brand.

Cultural significance

The cultural significance of names varies widely across different societies. Names can convey traditions, important symbols, familial relationships, and social status. In many cultures, naming ceremonies are considered a significant life event.

Legal aspects

The legal aspects of naming include the right to a name, which is recognized in many jurisdictions as a human right under international law. Laws may govern the naming of children, the changing of one's name, and the use of professional names and pseudonyms.

In literature and mythology

In literature and mythology, names often carry deep meanings and can influence the fate of characters. The study of names in literary works is known as onomastics.

See also

• Onomastics
• Pseudonym
• Anonymity

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