A "nom de plume" is a French term that translates to "pen name" in English. It refers to a pseudonym used by authors to conceal their true identity while writing. Many writers choose a nom de plume for various reasons, such as privacy, to avoid prejudice, or to create a distinct persona for their work. Famous authors like Mark Twain and George Orwell adopted nom de plumes to separate their literary careers from their personal lives. Using a pen name can also help writers explore different genres or styles without being confined to their established reputation.