cognominal
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /kɒɡˈnɒmɪnəl/
KK: /kɒgˈnɒmɪnəl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a surname or family name.
Example
In some cultures, the cognominal tradition is very important for family identity.
Conversation
I just learned that your last name is actually cognominal in origin.
Really? I had no idea it meant that!
Yeah, it’s interesting how much history our names carry, especially the cognominal ones.
Absolutely! It makes me want to research my family tree more.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
nominal
surnominal
appellative
Antonyms
anonymous
nonexistent
unidentified
noun
Definition
A person or thing that has the same name as another; a namesake.
Example
She named her daughter after her grandmother, making her a cognominal of the family.
Conversation
Did you know that my brother's name is the same as mine?
That's cool! So you both have a cognominal connection.
Yeah, it's funny how people get us mixed up sometimes.
Root Explanation
Cognominal → It is formed from "cogno-" (from Latin "cognomen", meaning name or surname) and "-minal" (from Latin "nominalis", meaning pertaining to names). The word "cognominal" refers to something that is related to or pertaining to a name or surname.
Memory Tip
Think of 'cogno-' relating to 'name' and '-minal' meaning 'pertaining to'. This helps you remember that 'cognominal' refers to something related to a name.
Visually Confused Words
agnominal
nominal
cogonal
pronominal
economical