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# Name

Whereas a primitive is a word defined by the system, a name is a word defined by you. The primitive `=.` defines a name.

`v =. 23`

The sentence can be read as `v` is `23`. The word `=.` is called copula (another good English language term). The name `v` is defined as the number 23 and can be used in other sentences.

       5 + v
    28

Unlike a primitive, a name can be redefined.

       v =. 45
       5 + v
    50

The system does not display the result of the sentence when it begins with a copula. A sentence that contains only a name shows a display form of the definition of the name.

       abc =. 123
       abc
    123

You can give anything a name. For example, you could give a name to the verb `+` .

       plus =. +
       23 plus 45
    68

The preferred way to read `abc =. def` is: `abc` is `def` or `abc` is defined as `def`. However, borrowing from other computer languages, it is also common to say: `abc` is assigned the value `def` or the value `def` is assigned to `abc`.

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