antonomasias
/ˌæntənəˈmeɪʒəz/
noun
- The use of a descriptive phrase or title instead of a person's real name, or the use of a famous name to refer to someone with a similar quality.
- In literature, calling a wise old man 'a Solomon' is an example of antonomasia.
- Teachers sometimes use antonomasia when they call a very fast runner 'the Flash.'
- The nickname 'The Bard' for Shakespeare is a classic antonomasia.