Acronym
A word formed from the initial letters of a phrase, pronounced as a single word and used as a shorthand for the full name (for example, NASA or radar).
nounAcronym
A word formed from the initial letters of a phrase, pronounced as a single word and used as a shorthand for the full name (for example, NASA or radar).
nounImagine This
Imagine a committee naming a long project: they take the first letters of National Aeronautics and Space Administration and create NASA, a catchy, pronounceable name that people can say aloud instead of reciting the full title.
Sounds Like
AK-ruh-nim
Looks Like
Usually written in all caps (NASA, FBI) or as a pronounceable word (radar, laser).
Remember This
Acronyms are often spoken as words (radar, laser, NASA). Some acronyms become common words, while others are still pronounced letter by letter (FBI, CIA).
Other Forms
Connect With
initialism, abbreviation, short form, shorthand
Note
Use 'an acronym' because the word begins with a vowel sound. Distinguish acronyms from initialisms: acronyms are pronounceable as words, while initialisms are pronounced letter by letter. Some terms start as acronyms and later become ordinary words.
Study Deeper
- NASA is an acronym for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
- Radar is an acronym standing for Radio Detection and Ranging.
From Greek akron 'top, tip' and onoma 'name'. The term was coined in the 20th century to describe a name formed from the initial letters of a phrase.
ACRO-NYM = top-name. Remember that acro- means top or tip and -nym means name; an acronym is a top-name formed from the initials of several words.
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Ineffable
adjectiveToo great or extreme to be described in words; indescribable.
Recessive
adjectiveRelating to a gene or trait that is masked by a dominant allele and expressed only when two recessive alleles are present.
Terse
adjectiveBrief and to the point; using few words, often in a sharp or brusque manner.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abasement
nounThe act or instance of humiliating or degrading someone; the state of being lowered in dignity or status.
Absurdity
nounThe quality or state of being wildly unreasonable, illogical, or ridiculous; something that is completely contrary to reason or common sense.
Accent
nounA distinctive way of pronouncing words; the act of emphasizing a syllable or word (as a verb, to accent means to emphasize).
Accolade
nounAn honor; a public expression of praise or an award.
Acrimony
nounBitterness of speech or manner; ill feeling
Adversary
nounAn opponent; a foe; an enemy.