Pronunciation: [kˈɒɡnəmˌɪnə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "cognominal" is spelled as kɒɡˈnɒmɪn(ə)l. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "o" sound, followed by a hard "g" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound followed by an "n" and a short "o". The third syllable contains a short "i" sound, an "m", an unstressed "i", and an "n" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound and an "l" sound. This word means "having the same name."
Cognominal is an adjective that refers to something related to or having the same name. It is derived from the Latin word "cognōmen," which means "surname" or "family name."
In the context of personal names, cognominal describes individuals who have the same or similar surname. It signifies a common family name shared by multiple individuals, such as brothers or sisters, cousins, or even unrelated individuals. For instance, John Smith and Mary Smith are cognominal as they share the same family name – Smith.
The term can also be used in a broader sense, outside of personal names. It can refer to things or entities that are named or labeled similarly. In this context, it indicates a shared designation or identification. For example, different books that have the same title can be considered cognominal to each other, as they share the same name.
Cognominal is essential in distinguishing and categorizing individuals, objects, or concepts based on their shared name or designation. It allows for the organization and recognition of commonalities among various elements, making it easier to identify relationships or similarities between them. Its usage is thus valuable in various fields, such as genealogy, literature, and research, where the examination of names and their connections is significant.
Pert. to the surname.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Cognominal" is derived from the Latin term "cognōmen", which means "surname" or "extra name". In Latin, "co-" is a prefix indicating "together with" or "jointly", and "nōmen" means "name". Therefore, "cognominal" can be understood as something that is related or associated with a name, particularly a surname or extra name.
