Proper Noun Definition and Examples

What is a Proper Noun?

A proper noun is a specific type of noun that is used to refer to a particular person, place, organization, or thing. It is a name that is unique and specific to an individual entity. Proper nouns are capitalized, regardless of their position in a sentence, to set them apart from common nouns.

Here are some key characteristics of proper nouns:

Specificity: Proper nouns are used to identify and refer to specific individuals, places, organizations, or things.
Capitalization: Proper nouns always begin with a capital letter, distinguishing them from common nouns.
Uniqueness: Proper nouns are distinct names that help differentiate one entity from others. They provide a specific identity to an individual or entity.
Names of People: Proper nouns can be names of people, such as John, Emily, or Michael.
Names of Places: Proper nouns can also represent specific locations or geographic entities, such as Paris, London, or Mount Everest.
Names of Organizations: Proper nouns can refer to the names of companies, institutions, or organizations, such as Apple Inc., Harvard University, or United Nations.

These are just a few examples of the types of proper nouns. Proper nouns can cover a wide range of names and entities, each serving the purpose of identifying and distinguishing specific individuals, places, things, or concepts.