"Née" is a French term meaning "born" and is often used to indicate a woman's maiden name. It is commonly seen in formal contexts, such as legal documents or genealogical records, to clarify a person's identity before marriage. For example, if a woman named Jane Smith marries and becomes Jane Doe, her name may be presented as "Jane Doe, née Smith." The use of "née" helps preserve the historical and familial connections of individuals, especially in cultures where lineage is significant. It serves as a reminder of a person's origins and can be important in discussions about heritage, family trees, and personal identity.