In a post on Writers Helping Writers, Becca Puglisi shares seven tips for finding the perfect character name. “That name will represent the character we love, so the pressure’s on to get it right,” she says.
Some common problems to avoid include names that are impossible to pronounce or spell, or having too many characters with similar sounding names. But how can you pick the perfect name? Puglisi suggests:
- Don’t Reinvent the Wheel. Keep it simple: Use encyclopedias, new articles or obituaries, family names, or baby name books. The Social Security Administration offers a list of popular baby names by year, which can help you pick a period appropriate name.
- Know the Character’s Role. “The more important a character is to the story, the more memorable or purposeful their name can be,” Puglisi writes. “The opposite is true for background characters, because a peripheral character with an interesting or attention-grabbing name could pull the reader’s attention where you don’t want it and make them think there’s more going on back there than there really is.”
- Choose Something that Characterizes. What can your character’s name reveal about their personality or role in the story? Some names will signal race, religion, sex, or culture. Does your character use a nickname? Did your protagonist choose her name?
- Explore the Root Meaning. Research the etymology of the names your considering, or reverse search for names by language. Many online tools provide etymology and history of many names.
- Utilize Sound Devices. The sound of a name can communicate character. “Did you know that explosive consonants have a jarring and unsettling effect to the hearer?” Puglisi writes. “These sounds (p, b, d, g, k, ch-, sh-) can work well for a villain’s name—Gordon Gekko, Krampus, Count Dracula, and the like. On the flip side, harmonious/soft consonants (l, m, n, r, th, wh, soft f, soft v) may be good for peaceful or nurturing characters, such as Luna Lovegood or Melanie Wilkes (Gone with the Wind).”
- Evoke a Desired Response. Use literary devices, such as alliteration or assonance, to make the name memorable. Craft a name that’s quirky, musical, or unnerving.
- Tie it to the Story’s Theme. Consider the message you want to convey and connect it to your protagonist’s name.
