ekename

Ekename is a coined term used in discussions of online identity to denote an electronic name adopted to represent a person in digital environments. It functions as a persistent alias across platforms, distinct from a person’s legal name. The term is not widely standardized and appears primarily in privacy, security, and digital-culture discussions rather than in formal lexicons.

Etymology: The word appears to be a blend of the prefix e- meaning electronic and name. It emerged in online discussions in the late 2010s, with no single author or formal adoption.

Usage: In privacy-focused contexts, an ekename is presented as an alternative to real names to protect privacy while maintaining recognizability across services. In other contexts, ekename is used interchangeably with username, screen name, or handle. Some platforms impose real-name requirements; in such environments, users may carry an ekename as a secondary identity or opt to reveal only partial information.

Examples: ekename examples include individual-style identifiers like "alex_k," "jane.doe42," or "eco_marine" used across gaming forums and social platforms.

Limitations: Because ekename is not a standardized term, its interpretation varies; it may be confused with existing concepts like username or alias.

See also: Username, Screen name, Handle, Online alias, Pseudonym, Real-name policy.