What is a soubriquet?

A soubriquet refers to a nickname, which is often informal and used to characterize a person in a way that goes beyond their formal name. This term is derived from a French word that implies a sort of playful or affectionate description that captures an aspect of someone's personality, appearance, or deeds. For instance, a person known for their bravery might have the soubriquet "the Bold." The use of nicknames serves to create a sense of familiarity or endearment, often used by friends or in casual settings, as opposed to formal titles or names that convey status or lineage.

The other options, while related to names in various contexts, do not accurately capture the specific meaning of a soubriquet. A formal name connotes the official name given at birth or recognized by society; a title of nobility refers to a rank within a hierarchical structure; and a surname is the family name inherited by members of a family. None of these definitions align with the informal and personal connotations of a soubriquet.