nicknamen.[OE. ekename surname, hence, a nickname, an ekename being understood as a nekename, influenced also by E. nick, v. See Eke, and Name.] A name given in affectionate familiarity, sportive familiarity, contempt, or derision; a familiar or an opprobrious appellation; as, Nicholas's nickname is Nick.()v. t. To give a nickname to; to call by a nickname.()You nickname virtue; vice you should have spoke. (Shak.)I altogether disclaim what has been nicknamed the doctrine of finality. (Macaulay.)()