pen-name

The author used a pen-name for her first novel.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A pseudonym used by an author: "pen-name" refers to a fictitious name adopted by a writer to publish their work instead of using their real name.

Usage Examples

• (The author Samuel Clemens used the fake name Mark Twain for his books.)
• (The female author Mary Ann Evans used a male pen-name to be taken seriously.)

Advanced Usage

• "to write under a pen-name": to use a pseudonym for publishing.

  • Many authors choose to write under a pen-name to protect their privacy. (They use a fake name so readers do not know their real identity.)

• "to adopt a pen-name": to take on a fictitious name for professional purposes.

  • The poet adopted a pen-name that sounded more artistic. (He chose a fake name that seemed more creative.)

Variants and Related Words

• Pen (n): a writing instrument (not a direct synonym, but related as "pen" is part of the compound).
• Pseudonym (n): a general term for any fictitious name used by an individual, not limited to authors.
  • The spy used a pseudonym to avoid detection. (He used a fake name for secrecy.)

Synonyms

• Pseudonym: a fictitious name used by a person.
• Nom de plume: a French phrase meaning "pen name," used specifically for authors.
• Alias: a false or assumed name, often used in criminal contexts.

Related Idioms

• "to go by a pen-name": to be known by a fictitious name.

  • The famous novelist goes by the pen-name J.K. Rowling. (She is publicly known by her pen-name, not her real name.)

• "to use a pen-name": to employ a fake name for writing.

  • He uses a pen-name to separate his personal life from his writing career. (He uses a false name to keep his private life private.)