1. a name that is the same as or derived from the name of the person, place, or thing it refers to
Usage: linguistics, onomastics
2. a book or work published under the author's own name rather than a pseudonym
Usage: publishing, formal
3. in biology, a scientific name that is identical to a previously published name for a different organism
Usage: taxonomy, biology

Examples

• The word 'English' is an autonym because it refers to the language of England.
• Many authors prefer to publish under an autonym to establish their professional reputation.
• The city of York gave its name to New York, making 'York' an autonym in geographical terminology.
• In taxonomy, an autonym can create confusion when the same name is used for different species.
• She decided to write her memoir under an autonym rather than hide behind a pen name.