A more thorough explanation:

Definition: D.b.a. stands for "doing business as." It refers to when a person or company uses a business name instead of their own name. In order to inform the public about the real person or entity behind a business name, all states require a certificate of "doing business under a fictitious name" to be filed with the County Clerk, the state Secretary of State, or another official. This is not necessary if the business includes the name of the true owner and is not to be confused with the use of a corporation name, which is registered with the state.

John Smith wants to start a business selling handmade candles. He decides to call his business "Candle Creations." In order to legally use this name, John must file a certificate of "doing business under a fictitious name" with the appropriate state official. This will inform the public that John Smith is the real person behind the business name "Candle Creations."

Another example is a company called "ABC Corporation" that is registered with the state. This is not considered a d.b.a. because the company name is already registered and does not require a certificate of "doing business under a fictitious name."

These examples illustrate the definition of d.b.a. by showing how a person or company can legally use a business name instead of their own name, but must file the appropriate paperwork to inform the public about the real person or entity behind the name.