syn·o·nym ˈsinəˌnim/ noun plural noun: synonyms a word or phrase that means exactly or nearly the same as another word or phrase in the same language, for example shut is a synonym of close. synonyms: alternate, substitute, alternative, equivalent, euphemism "'harsh' may be used as synonym for 'oppressive'" a person or thing so closely associated with a particular quality or idea that the mention of their name calls it to mind. "the Victorian age is a synonym for sexual puritanism" BIOLOGY a taxonomic name that has the same application as another, especially one that has been superseded and is no longer valid.