1. A false name or identity used to conceal one's true identity. This is the most common use of the word. For example:
* "The thief used the alias 'John Smith' to avoid detection."
* "She went by the alias 'Jane Doe' while on the run."
2. Also known as, or otherwise called. This meaning is often used in formal writing or in a list of names. For example:
* "The famous musician, alias 'The Maestro,' gave a stunning performance."
* "The company, alias Acme Corporation, is facing bankruptcy."
3. In computing, an alias is a shortcut or nickname for a command, file, or directory. This helps make using the system easier and more efficient. For example:
* "I created an alias called 'lsl' for the command 'ls -l' to quickly see the detailed listing of files in a directory."
In short, "alias" means a different name or label used for something else, either for disguise or convenience.