The Art of Naming: How I Choose My Characters’ Names

By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills

Readers ask me how I choose my characters’ names. Every book has the same challenge, and the answer is not simple. Selecting character names is a process, one that involves time and research. I keep a list of names for people and pets, but that doesn’t mean I use them.

A character’s identity is who they are at the beginning of the story; their essence is who they become by the end. That transformation should be reflected in the name you choose.

I want to share my process. If you’re a reader, then your question to how I choose names will be answered. If you’re a writer, my guidelines may help you in naming your characters.

Genre: How Category Shapes Character Names

The genre sets the boundaries—and the freedom— or how writers name their characters.

• Each genre uses names according to the category of fiction.
• Historical stories use names according to the culture and date.
• Science fiction allows the writer to explore their imagination of a future world.
• Fantasy relies on creativity and the magical story world.
• Contemporary names are shaped by culture, setting, when, and where a character is born.

Meaning: How Names Symbolize the Character’s Purpose

The meaning of a character’s name has impact on the writer and the reader. Choose with the story ending in mind.

• Character names equate to their motivation, goal, conflict, and role in the story.
• Exceptions to the first bullet point are if the name is an embarrassment, and the character wishes to change the stigma.
• Names take on slightly different meanings in different cultures, countries, and eras. Choose a name that fits the character’s origin.

 Setting: How Story Setting Strengthens the Character’s Name

Story setting is where the action takes place and stakes are raised. The name is power.

• Writers consider names appropriate to where the scene takes place.
• Setting focuses on the character’s story world. What names fit logically and realistically?
• Thought is given to each scene containing an antagonistic setting and how the character’s name affects the role in the story.
• Whimsical names in a horror or thriller setting cause the reader to question the story’s credibility.
• Dark names in a romance or light-hearted setting confuse the reader.

Recommendations: Tips to Avoid When Naming Characters

The following is a list of cautionary items. These could cause a problem in the story.

• Character names that begin with the same letter. Keep them distinct.
• Names from previously written stories unless the book is part of a series.
• Spellings that are difficult for the reader to say or understand.
• Names that don’t sound like they are spelled.

A writer has a reason for choosing a character’s name. If the name pertains to the story and its plot, the choice belongs to the writer.

Choosing a character’s name is part of the fun of developing a story. What do you feel is important to establishing a name?