Origin of the word nom de plume?

The phrase "nom de plume" is of French origin, literally translating to "pen name."

It comes from the combination of two French words:

* Nom: meaning "name"

* Plume: meaning "feather," which was traditionally used for writing instruments, like quills.

The phrase was first used in the 17th century and became popularized in the 18th and 19th centuries as writers sought to protect their identity or create a separate persona for their work.