What are some sources for getting names for a family story?

You can look at baby name websites. They have a large variety of names that you can use as inspiration. For example, they often categorize names by origin, popularity, and meaning.

One great source is historical records. You can find names from different eras in history books or online archives. Old census records, for example, can provide a wealth of unique names that were popular in the past. These names can add authenticity to a story set in a particular historical period.

Classic literature can be a great source. Names from detective novels like 'Hercule' from Agatha Christie's works. Mythology is also good. For example, 'Athena' could be a strong, intelligent female character's name. And historical figures. Names like 'Caesar' can add a sense of grandeur and mystery.

Movies and TV shows can also provide inspiration. You might hear a name in a movie that gives you an idea for your own story. For instance, the name 'Neo' from 'The Matrix' has a very futuristic and unique feel. Additionally, your own family names or the names of people you know can be a starting point. You can modify them slightly to fit the world of your creative fiction.

Literature itself is a great source. You can take names from classic novels or poems. For example, 'Scarlett' from 'Gone with the Wind' is a very recognizable name. Another popular source is history. Names of historical figures can be used and adapted. Like 'Julius' from Julius Caesar. And don't forget about nature. Names like 'Luna' (moon) or 'River' can be very evocative for characters.

Art can provide some interesting name ideas. Think about the names of famous paintings or sculptures. For example, the name 'Mona' from the 'Mona Lisa' could be a starting point. Also, consider the names of musicians or bands. If your character is a bit of a rebel, a name inspired by a punk rock band might work well. You can also look at different alphabets and scripts. Translating a simple word into another alphabet and using that as a name can be really unique.

Myths and legends are great sources. Names from Greek mythology like 'Apollo' or 'Athena' are well - known and can add a sense of grandeur. Another source is nature. Names like 'River' or 'Sky' can give a character a connection to the natural world.

Mythology is a common source. Names from Greek, Norse, or Egyptian mythology like 'Athena', 'Thor', or 'Isis' can be used directly or adapted. Another source is literature. Classic works often have unique names that can be borrowed. For example, 'Gandalf' from 'The Lord of the Rings'. Also, different cultures around the world provide a wealth of name options. Asian cultures, for instance, have many beautiful and meaningful names.

Comic books are full of funny character names. For example, 'Deadpool' is a very humorous name. You can also look at different languages' translations of common words. In some languages, 'cat' might be translated in a really funny way and you could use that for a cat - like character in your story. Everyday objects around you can be a source. If you have a broken chair, you could name a character 'Wobbly - Chair Charlie'. And don't overlook the power of making up completely new words that just sound funny when you say them out loud, like 'Zippity - Zappity - Zack' for a really energetic character.

One source of inspiration for unusual character names in stories can be dreams. Sometimes we have strange names in our dreams that can be used. Also, old books that are not very well - known can have interesting names. For example, if you find an old Victorian - era novel, there might be some archaic names in there that you can adapt. Additionally, street names in different cities can be a source. If you see a street name like 'Crescent Lane', you could create a character named 'Crescentia'.