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Dictionary.com
Definitions

in name only

ADJECTIVE
nominal
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ostensible titular
STRONG
formal given puppet simple
WEAK
alleged apparent as advertised honorary in effect only mentioned named pretended professed purported seeming self-styled so-called stated suggested
Antonyms
WEAK
actual important real significant true
ADJECTIVE
titular
Synonyms
STRONGEST
nominal
WEAK
so-called
Antonyms
WEAK
actual real true

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It is especially a menace to anyone invested in securities such as longer-term Treasury bonds, which are “safe” in name only.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 11, 2026

When Gian Neglia took over as sporting director of the Las Vegas Lights in February, it was a team in name only.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2024

But they’re likely to be Phillips delegates in name only.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 23, 2024

His maiden Tonga try silenced the home crowd, and indicated the hosts are in for a real challenge during this series against a team who proved they are tier two in name only.

From BBC • Oct. 22, 2023

He seemed a druggist in name only; he more closely fit the prevailing ideal of the self-made man who through hard work and invention pulled himself rung by rung into the upper strata of society.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson