Explanation
The substitution of a proper name with a characterizing designation, or vice versa. A person is identified by a condensed characteristic, or a name becomes a model of a characteristic.
Example
The “Prince of Poets” can refer to Goethe in a given context.
Counterexample
Any nickname without a characterizing function is not necessarily antonomasia.
Distinction
Distinction from metonymy: Any nickname without a characterizing function is not necessarily antonomasia.
Effect on thought and perception
A person becomes recognizable through a condensed characteristic, or a name becomes the embodiment of a characteristic.
Resonance
Antonomasia makes a directed relationship perceptible: A person becomes identifiable through a condensed characteristic, or a name becomes the embodiment of a characteristic.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Antonomasia“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-134-023. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-134-023The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.