Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

in-name-only

idiom

/ɪn neɪm ˈoʊnli/

Definition

Describing a situation or title that exists merely in name without any corresponding reality or substance.

Examples

He is the president in-name-only, as the real decisions are made by the board.
She holds the position in-name-only, without any actual responsibilities or authority.
The organization was a charity in-name-only, lacking genuine efforts to help.

Meaning

The term ‘in-name-only’ refers to something that is only titular or nominal. It implies that the named entity has little or no real power, function, or characteristics associated with that title.