What does username mean?
A username is a name or identifier used to represent someone in a computer system, website, forum, game, or other online environment. It may serve as the label attached to an account, the name displayed beside a user's posts or activity, or the credentials used to access a service. Usernames are often chosen to be distinctive, memorable, or private, and they can be more or less closely connected to a person's real identity. The word is now common in everyday technical and social contexts, even among people who would not describe themselves as computer experts. In contrast to a person's legal or given name, a username is generally specific to a particular account or digital community. Although “username” is closely related to “user name,” the one-word spelling is standard in contemporary usage. Its usefulness lies in describing a practical form of identity that connects a person with an account while allowing some control over how they are represented online.
nounA name or identifier chosen by a person to represent them in a computer system, online service, forum, or game. It is commonly used to sign in to an account or to identify the user publicly within a digital community.
- An identifier used to sign in to or access a computer account or online service.
- A name used to identify a person in an online community, forum, game, or other digital setting.
"Choose a username that is distinctive but does not reveal too much personal information."
"I changed my username after joining the discussion forum."
"The system will send a verification message to the username you entered."
The regular plural is “usernames,” used when referring to multiple account identifiers.
"The website allows users to choose their usernames."
A username is a digital calling card: it identifies you to a stranger before you say a word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of username
“Username” is a compound formed from “user” and “name.” “User” comes through Old French from Latin uter, a word associated with using or employing, while “name” comes from the Germanic word inherited into English. The compound became established in computing terminology as computer systems and online services developed, and it is now widely used for digital account and community identifiers.
How username is actually used
The term is chiefly associated with computing, online communication, and interactive digital environments. It is written as one word in modern usage, although the two-word form “user name” also occurs, especially in formal or older technical writing.
Easily confused with username
A username identifies a particular account or online persona, whereas a user is the person or system that uses the account.
A username is used to identify someone in a computer or online setting, while a nickname is generally a familiar name used socially and need not be tied to an account.