Eponymous

/ɪˈpɒnɪməs/ adj

Definition

Giving one's name to something — a person or thing after whom something is named.

Etymology

From Greek eponymos (giving one's name to), from epi- (upon) + onyma (name). In Athens, the "eponymous archon" was the magistrate after whom the year was named. Your name becoming a word is a form of immortality.

Kelly Says

Some people become so identified with a thing that their name replaces the thing's name. Sandwich, cardigan, algorithm, boycott — all eponymous. Your name becoming a common noun is the most democratic form of immortality. You become a word everyone uses without knowing why.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.