alter ego

[ awl-ter ee-goh, eg-oh, al- ]

noun

1. a second self; a perfect substitute or deputy:

   His adviser acts as his alter ego during his absence.

2. an inseparable friend.
3. another aspect of one's self.

alter ego

/ ˈæltər ˈiːɡəʊ; ˈɛɡəʊ /

noun

1. a second self
2. a very close and intimate friend

alter ego

1. An intimate friend, considered another side of oneself: “He was my alter ego; we were always picking up each other's thoughts.” Alter ego is Latin for “another I.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of alter ego¹

1530–40; < Latin (Cicero), probably translation of Greek állos egṓ, héteros egṓ another I

Word History and Origins

Origin of alter ego¹

Latin: other self

Example Sentences

“He can do no wrong,” said Terhune, mimicking his alter ego.

From Los Angeles Times

But there’s no denying that his former alter ego Ben Covington inflects his current roles, especially on “Grey’s Anatomy.”

From Los Angeles Times

He explained that the decision to retire his alter ego was partially influenced by becoming a dad.

From Los Angeles Times

Bratton, who is generally as affable, thoughtful and loquacious as his TV alter ego was not, was born in Los Angeles.

From Los Angeles Times

It's like, we turn into our other selves, like an alter ego.

From Salon

Related Words

• soul mate