# anonymity

/ˌænəˈnɪmɪti/ (US) · /ˌænənˈɪmɪtˌi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/anonymity
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. being unidentified

noun · CEFR B2

the state of not being known by name or not being identified.

For teachers: the quality or state of being anonymous; the condition of a person's identity being withheld or unknown to the public.

- The witness agreed to speak to the reporter only on the condition of anonymity.
- The donor requested total anonymity, insisting that their name be omitted from all press releases and commemorative plaques.

Usage: Often follows the preposition 'in' or is used as the object of 'request' or 'guarantee'.

### 2. lack of distinct features

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

a feeling of being just one of many people, where nobody notices you or knows who you are.

For teachers: the quality of being unremarkable or lacking individualising features, often in a social or urban context.

- He enjoyed the anonymity of living in a huge city where no one knew his past.
- Modern suburban architecture is often criticised for its bland anonymity, which can lead to a sense of social alienation among residents.

Usage: Uncountable in this sense.

## Examples

- The donor requested total anonymity.
- The witness was granted anonymity to protect them from potential retaliation after testifying in the high-profile case.
- The internet provides a degree of anonymity that can empower whistleblowers, yet it also facilitates a lack of accountability for those who engage in online harassment.

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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.