# anon

/ˌæˈnɔn/ (US) · /ɐnˈɒn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anon
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

short for anonymous, meaning that the person's name is not known or not given. You see this word often online when someone posts without showing their identity.

For teachers: serving as a shortened form of anonymous; describing a person or entity whose identity is concealed or undisclosed. Common in digital contexts and informal writing.

## Examples

- An anon user posted a helpful comment.
- The anon donor gave money to the school without asking for credit.
- In the age of social media, anon posting allows users to share controversial opinions without fear of personal backlash.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the anon person" but "the anonymous person" — Anon is informal; use anonymous in formal writing.

## Usage notes

- Used attributively before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.