Anonymous means having an unknown or hidden identity. When something is anonymous, you don't know who created it, said it, or did it.

An anonymous letter arrives with no signature or return address. An anonymous tip helps police solve a crime, but the informant's name stays secret. When someone makes an anonymous donation to a charity, they give money without wanting credit or recognition.

Sometimes anonymity protects people. Whistleblowers who report wrongdoing often remain anonymous to stay safe. In early America, political writers like the authors of the Federalist Papers published anonymously to focus attention on their ideas rather than their identities.

Other times, anonymity can cause problems. When people comment anonymously online, they might say cruel things they'd never say face-to-face. The shield of anonymity can bring out both courage and cowardice in people.

The opposite of anonymous is identified or known. While signing your name to your work shows pride and accountability, there are moments when staying anonymous serves a purpose, like voting by secret ballot or seeking help for a personal problem.