The Significance of After-Names: Understanding the Reasons Behind Name Changes

After-named refers to a name that is given to someone or something after their birth or creation. It can also refer to a name that is chosen or selected later in life, as opposed to a name that is given at birth or as part of an official identity.

For example, if someone is born with the name John but later chooses to go by the name Jack, Jack would be considered an after-name. Similarly, if someone is given the name Sarah at birth but later changes their name to Emily through legal means, Emily would be considered an after-name.

After-names can be used for a variety of reasons, such as to reflect a change in personal identity or to distinguish oneself from others with the same name. They can also be used to honor a family member or cultural tradition, or simply because the person prefers the new name.