Question:
What is the definition of the kunyah and laqab (nick name)?
Answer:
The kunyah is that which begins with ab (أب) or um (أم). As for the laqab then this is broader than the kunyah for verily it could begin with ab or um but it is a laqab and not a kunyah, for example Abu Zinād is a laqab and not a kunyah. Likewise that which goes back to a profession or trade. The laqab could also be praiseworthy or un-praiseworthy.
And Allah knows best.
Answered by: Shaikh Abu Abdillah Muhammad Ba Jamaal (May Allah preserve him)
Source: https://t.me/OfficialChannelShaykhBaajammaal/175
Translated by: Abu Musa Jamaal al-Britani