What does naming mean?
Naming is the act of choosing or assigning a name to a person, object, place, organisation, or idea. It is also used as a gerund for the broader process, as in the naming of a ship or the naming of a new product. In everyday language, the word can suggest both a practical administrative act and something more personal or ceremonial. Naming a newborn establishes part of their identity, while naming a company or product gives it a public label and may shape how people perceive it. The word is especially prominent in contexts involving official designations, naming rights, naming conventions, and ceremonies. Although many names are already established, naming is often treated as a significant decision because a name can remain associated with its subject for years or decades.
The act or process of assigning a name to someone or something.
"The naming of the library will take place next month."
The plural form is uncommon but can be used for multiple separate instances of naming.
Giving a name or designation to a person, thing, place, or concept.
"The mayor will name the bridge after a former local leader."
This is the gerund form of the verb name and is often used in formal and institutional contexts.
The plural is uncommon; singular usage is generally preferred.
"The two namings took place in different parts of the city."
A name may seem simple, but naming carries everything from a newborn's identity to a stadium's most valuable commercial asset.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does naming come from?
The word naming comes from the English noun name and the verb name, which ultimately derive from Old English nama. That word was borrowed from Latin nomen, meaning “name,” and is related to forms such as nominal and nominate. The modern sense of assigning a name developed from the older noun and verb uses concerning a person’s or thing’s name or reputation.
Related word forms
How naming is actually used
As a noun, naming often appears in formal or institutional contexts, such as naming rights and naming conventions. As a verb, it is common in professional, legal, and everyday descriptions of assigning names.
Easily confused with naming
A label is the name or description attached to something, whereas naming is the act of assigning that name or description.