Unique Names for Characters
A Writer's Guide to Finding Unusual Name Resources Online
From a perfect personality match to an accurate ethnic or regional name, finding a handle that fits a character's unique traits, online name databases provide writer's with much-needed answers.
A range of sites offer an array of names, from common choices to foreign derivates. Additional insights include name meanings, the history of names, perceived personality traits behind them, and other details that might influence name choice.
Although several of the sites were designed with parents-to-be in mind, the concepts work perfectly for writers seeking information in the age-old Shakespearean quest to learn "what's in a name".
Foreign Names and Favorite Selections
At the Babynology.com site, writers can read alphabetical lists of ordinary and exotic names, or search for names by country. While long lists of names can be tedious to read through, users are rewarded with a vast selection of names and meanings from which to choose.
Particularly helpful to writers searching for foreign names, the site Babynamesworld.parentsconnect.com has an impressive database of regional names from around the world. Find common or popular selections for almost any nation; or browse traditional choices for a more historic choice.
Names and Meanings
Allinaname.com is a great site for writers interested in the meaning behind the name. While the names tend to be more prosaic in comparison to broader names databases, the listed meanings and nuances behind the names makes up for any missing selections or limited selections.
Potential character traits behind the name are also included in the database, giving users a clue regarding public perception of the name (a great way to avoid casting a hero with a name typically reserved with jerks, for instance).
The History of Names
For writers interested in the regional and cultural history behind names, particularly last names, Mayrand.org is filled with helpful information for writers interested in the history and meaning of last names. The site categorizes names by clans, tribes and ethnicities; original spelling and pronunciation information is also provided.
Find the meaning behind the names, both first and last since many names are interchangeable. More last name origins and meanings can be located using Last-name.org's resources. Name a hero for a courageous Celtic clan; or ensure a character descends from a line of French nobility without having to steal a name from a paperback romance novel or the last foreign film from college days.
Electronic Resources Vs. Baby Name Books
While paper reference manuals, such as traditional baby names books, are good to have on hand, online resources offer bigger selection and great international references than an ordinary publication. Online names databases are the best choice for writers interested in diversity and enhanced meaning for each character's name.
Find Unique Names for Fictional Characters
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Writing & Publishing
Latest Articles