Browse all

name for

A2 neutral separable transitive

To give someone or something the name of another person or place, especially as a tribute; predominantly American English.

In plain English

To call someone or something by the name of another person or place you want to honour.

What does "name for" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 A2 neutral

To give a person, place, or thing a name in honour of someone or something else.

"The new library was named for the mayor who championed its construction."

Washington, D.C. was named for George Washington.

— Standard US historical fact, widely cited in encyclopaedias and school curricula
separable
Usage tip

Mainly used in American English. Functionally identical to 'name after'. The passive 'named for' is very common in American writing and speech.

Words that pair with "name for"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

baby stadium school award city street

How to conjugate "name for"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
name for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
names for
he/she/it
Past simple
named for
yesterday
Past participle
named for
have + pp
-ing form
naming for
continuous

Hear "name for" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "name for" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "name for"

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

call after dedicate to name after

Keep exploring

Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.