know (someone or something) by name
know (someone or something) by name
To have heard someone's or something's name before without being acquainted with them or it. A: "Have you ever met Sarah's friend John?" B: "No, but I know him by name." Most people know the franchise by name, regardless of whether they've seen any of the films or not.
know someone or something by name
to recognize the name but not the appearance of someone or something. I only know her by name. I have no idea what she looks like. I know this brand of sausage by name, but I have never tasted it.