What does the term 'nom de plume' signify?

The term 'nom de plume' is derived from French, meaning 'pen name.' It signifies a pseudonym used by authors to conceal their true identity, allowing them to write without personal exposure or to separate different genres of writing. For example, an author might choose a nom de plume to write under a different name when publishing works that differ significantly from their established style or genre. This practice is common among writers and artists who want their work to be judged independently of their personal lives or previous works. The other options do not accurately capture this meaning, as they relate to a child's real name, ceremonial names, and sports names, which are unrelated to literary authorship.