15 Ways to Name Your Characters
Lesson from my 𝕏 followers
Naming the characters in your stories can often become a frustrating and tedious process. To solve this issue, I recently asked my followers on 𝕏 for their input.
They did not disappoint.
I’ve compiled their responses below. Some will be familiar tactics for veteran writers, but many are outside-the-box ideas (especially as the list goes on).
If you have any ideas of your own, feel free to add them to the original post.
Here are 15 ways to name your characters:
1. Random Name Generators
When you're stuck on finding the right name, turn to random name generators. There are some excellent websites to help you in this aspect.
Try:
Scrivener, my favorite writing software, has a name generator built-in.
2. Baby Name Websites
Baby name websites are a goldmine for character names. One follower even keeps a physical version nearby for quick reference.
3. People You Know from Real Life
Draw inspiration from real life by naming your characters after people you know. For example, you can name a character after your niece, a great-great-great grandfather with an interesting name, or anyone whose name has caught your attention.
4. Look Up Popular Names for the Decade
Consider the era in which your character was born. Look up popular names for the decade they came into the world. This can add depth to your character's identity.
5. City Names on Interstate Signs
As you travel, take note of city names on interstate signs. They can be a great source of unique character names.
6. Search the Names of Saints
If your character has a specific country of origin, researching the names of saints from that region can provide culturally rich name options.
7. Use Names from 1970s Gang Cards
Unique and unconventional sources like gang cards from the 1970s can be surprisingly inspiring for character names.
8. Browse Through the Phone Book
If you can get your hands on an old-fashioned phone book, it can be a treasure trove of different names to choose from.
9. Look Up Common Regional Names
For authenticity in your character's name, research common names from the region or culture they belong to, such as common Egyptian names for a character of Egyptian descent.
10. Scroll Through the Behind the Name Website
Behind the Name is a rich resource offering name meanings and history, perfect for character name inspiration. The lower section of the homepage has links to various lists of names to browse through:
Country Names (English, Spanish, German, India, etc.)
Mythology Names
Biblical Names
11. Look at Production Credits for TV and Movies
Sometimes, it's not the actors but the behind-the-scenes people who have fascinating names. Scour production credits for interesting monikers.
12. Anagrams
Get creative with anagrams. Rearrange letters from words or phrases to craft unique character names.
13. Ask Your child
A follower replied that he asks his eight-year-old for character name ideas. That’s probably a great way to get imaginative and unique answers!
14. Open a Magazine or Newspaper
If you're looking for character names with a contemporary touch, opening a magazine or newspaper can provide inspiration. If you’re like me and don’t have either lying around, I think scrolling through your social media timeline will suffice.
15. Work at a Call center and Create an Extensive List of Callers’ Names That You Find Interesting
I know, I know. That’s a very specific recommendation.
Let’s broaden it and note any interesting names that you come across in your daily life that are interesting. Record the name in a notebook or notes app.
Thank you to everyone who responded with these fantastic suggestions.
Finding the perfect name for your characters doesn't have to be a struggle. With these creative ideas, you'll be well-equipped to choose names that resonate with your readers and breathe life into your fictional world.
Consider sharing this lesson with a friend to grow the C.S.M. Fiction community:
Or explore the C.S.M. Fiction archive.
My parents named me “Ace”.
That’s all I’ll say.