Legal Definitions - alias

An alias is a name that someone uses instead of their real name. It can be a nickname, a pseudonym, or any other name that is not their legal name. The word "alias" comes from the Latin phrase "alias dictus," which means "otherwise called."

For example, if someone's legal name is John Smith, but they go by the nickname "Johnny," then "Johnny" is their alias. Another example is when a writer uses a pen name instead of their real name. J.K. Rowling is an alias for the author of the Harry Potter books, whose real name is Joanne Rowling.

The phrase "John Doe, alias" or "John Doe alias" is often used in legal documents to refer to an unknown person. This means that the person's real name is not known, but they are using a different name for some reason.

Overall, an alias is simply a name that someone uses instead of their legal name. It can be used for privacy, safety, or just for fun.