anonymity

noun

an·​o·​nym·​i·​ty ˌa-nə-ˈni-mə-tē How to pronounce anonymity (audio)
plural anonymities
1
: the quality or state of being anonymous
enjoyed the anonymity of life in a large city
2
: one that is anonymous
a crowd of faceless anonymities

Examples of anonymity in a Sentence

They are trying to protect their child's anonymity. She enjoyed the anonymity of life in a large city.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity, have said that the players have been informed of the decision. Jordan Campbell, The Athletic, 23 Feb. 2025 The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to confirm reports that the lists were submitted. Cybele Mayes-Osterman, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2025 The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a private meeting. Constant Méheut, New York Times, 20 Feb. 2025 The news was shared with staff during a meeting on Wednesday, according to two CDC staffers who spoke with NPR on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly, and a recording reviewed by NPR. Will Stone, NPR, 19 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for anonymity

Word History

Etymology

anonym(ous) + -ity

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of anonymity was in 1820

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Anonymity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anonymity. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

anonymity

noun
an·​o·​nym·​i·​ty ˌan-ə-ˈnim-ət-ē How to pronounce anonymity (audio)
plural anonymities
: the quality or state of being anonymous

More from Merriam-Webster on anonymity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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