John Doe

NOUN

common person

Synonyms

WEAK

Everyman Jane Doe Joe Blow Joe Doakes Joe Sixpack John Q. Public John Smith Mr Brown Mr. Nobody Richard Roe average Joe average person common man man in the street ordinary Joe

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.

Last week, Rana’s lawyers filed a lawsuit in New York state court using the pseudonym John Doe.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

As John Doe of X said, “bands you never thought you’d see on a boat.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2025

John Doe said he was conflicted about the gig.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2025

Jackson filed as a John Doe but revealed his identity in court documents by indicating he represents himself.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2025

“We have a John Doe at 451 Boardman.”

From "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young