How to come up with character names for stories?

You can draw inspiration from nature. For example, names like 'Amberleaf' or 'Stormwind' are great. Amber is a beautiful natural material, and leaf gives a sense of connection to the forest. Stormwind can represent a character with a wild and powerful nature. Another way is to use old languages. Latin or Old English words can be modified to form unique names. For instance, 'Veritas' which means truth in Latin can be a name for a wise character in your fantasy story.

One way is to look at different cultures. Each culture has unique and interesting names. For instance, in Irish culture, names like 'Finn' or 'Siobhan' can add a touch of mystery or charm to your short story characters. You can also combine words to create new names. Say your character is a bit of a dreamer, you could combine 'Star' and 'Gaze' to get 'Stargaze' as a name.

You can use names that have a certain mystery or ambiguity to them. For example, names like 'Shadow' or 'Mystique' can immediately give a sense of mystery. Another option is to use old - fashioned or archaic names that are not commonly used today, such as 'Eldridge' or 'Ophelia'. Also, you can create compound names by combining two words that evoke mystery, like 'Nightshade' or 'Fogwalker'.

You can look to nature for inspiration. For example, 'Aster' which is a type of flower, gives a sense of delicacy and beauty. Another way is to use words from different languages. 'Kaida' which means 'little dragon' in Japanese can be a really cool name for a strong or mysterious character.

You can use names with dark connotations. For example, 'Damien' which has been associated with the devil in some horror concepts. Another option is to use old - fashioned or archaic names like 'Ezekiel' or 'Ophelia'. These names can bring an air of mystery and unease to your horror story characters.

You can draw inspiration from various sources. For example, use names of your friends or family members and tweak them a bit. Another option is to look at different cultures and their naming traditions. Greek, Roman, and Celtic names can add a touch of mystery or magic to your characters. You could also consider using nature - related names like River, Sky, or Willow which can give a sense of calmness or wildness to your characters.

One way to create unusual character names for stories is to look at nature for inspiration. For instance, you could use the names of rare plants or animals and modify them slightly. Take the 'Quetzal', a beautiful bird, and turn it into 'Quetzalyn'. You can also think about historical or mythological figures and give their names a twist. For example, if you have a character based on Athena, you could name her 'Athneya' or something similar. Additionally, using onomatopoeia can work well. If a character is very quiet, you could name them 'Silentsigh'.

Look at the setting of your story. If it's a fantasy world with magic, names like 'Mystic' or 'Enchantra' could work. You might also base names on physical characteristics. A character with red hair could be named 'Scarlet'. Another way is to use alliteration, like 'Peter the Pirate' which is catchy and easy to remember.

You can start by considering the character's personality. For example, if a character is brave and strong, you might choose a name like 'Max' or 'Aria' which gives a sense of power. Another way is to look at the character's background. If they are from a certain culture or region, use names typical of that area. Also, think about the time period of your novel. In a historical novel, traditional names of that era would be appropriate.

You can draw inspiration from real names of people you know or famous figures. Also, think about the personality and traits of the character and find a name that suits them.