code name

¹

[kohd neym]

noun

1. a name assigned to conceal the real identity of a person, as a spy, or to conceal the existence or purpose of a plan, military operation, etc.

2. Also called code phrase. a word or phrase assigned a meaning understood only by those who are secretly informed of it.

code-name

²

[kohd-neym]

verb (used with object)

code-named, code-naming 

1. to assign a code name to.

Word History and Origins

Origin of code name¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Origin of code name²

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Southwest began testing new boarding months before assigned seating was announced using the code name Project USA.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The latter is salient because the name Oracle comes from the code name of a CIA-funded project that Ellison worked on.

Read more on Barron's

The code name for the massive operation to catch Miller, in the summer and fall of 1984, was “Whipworm,” a reference to an intestinal parasite.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

His secret service code name is “Legend.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Initially going by the code name Asgardian, Kaplan was introduced as a member of the Young Avengers whose magical powers include blasting energy and manipulating reality.

Read more on Los Angeles Times