alias

[ ey-lee-uhs ]

noun

, plural a·li·as·es.

1. a false name used to conceal one's identity; an assumed name:

   The police files indicate that “Smith” is an alias for Simpson.

   Synonyms: pseudonym, nom de plume, nom de guerre

adverb

1. at another time; in another place; in other circumstances; otherwise: “Simpson alias Smith” means that Simpson in other circumstances has called himself Smith.

alias

/ ˈeɪlɪəs /

adverb

1. at another time or place known as or named

   Dylan, alias Zimmerman

noun

1. an assumed name

Word History and Origins

Origin of alias¹

First recorded in 1525–35; from Latin: “at another time, otherwise”; else

Word History and Origins

Origin of alias¹

C16: from Latin aliās (adv) otherwise, at another time, from alius other

Example Sentences

But after his arrest this week by federal authorities, neighbors learned that Martinez was allegedly an alias.

From Los Angeles Times

He laundered the stolen cryptocurrency with the help of his wife Heather Morgan, who used the alias Razzlekhan to promote her hip hop music.

From BBC

He adopted “Dec Martens” as a kind of punk rock alias, like the Germs’ Darby Crash or Pat Smear.

From Los Angeles Times

One suspect is originally from Venezuela and multiple suspects have aliases, according to court records.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite not using an alias and having prior convictions, Alcala was hired by The Times as a typesetter in September 1977.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• assumed name
• moniker
• pseudonym
• stage name