Get Inspired: 5 Tips for Crafting Unique Location Names

Get Inspired: 5 Tips for Crafting Unique Location Names

Table of Contents:

• Introduction
• 1. Consider your geography
• 2. Think about politics
• 3. Remember to be lazy
• 4. Taboos and vulgar language
• 5. Embrace the chaos in your fantasy names
• Conclusion

Introduction

Naming things can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to creating names for your fictional world. In this article, we will explore five ways to improve your sci-fi or fantasy names, making your world feel more real and captivating. From considering geography and politics to embracing chaos, we'll provide tips and insights to help you create unique and engaging names for your world.

1. Consider your geography

In the real world, many names are derived from geographical features. Take the Netherlands, for example, or the Low Countries. When naming your settlements in worldbuilding, consider notable natural features around them. By incorporating geographical references, you can make the naming process easier and add authenticity to your world.

2. Think about politics

Leaders and politicians often seek recognition and importance by having towns named after themselves. Washington D.C. in the USA and Queensland and Victoria in Australia are clear examples of this. Furthermore, names can also change for political reasons. Be mindful of your world's history and how different cultures have made contact. This can result in a mix of languages and naming influences, providing an opportunity for rich storytelling.

3. Remember to be lazy

People tend to be lazy when it comes to naming things, and this is evident in how town names develop. For instance, Leicestershire is pronounced "Less-tu-shur" and Essex is a contraction of "The Kingdom of East Seaxe." Embrace this laziness in your naming process and consider shortening names or using colloquialisms to add a touch of realism to your world.

4. Taboos and vulgar language

Vulgar language and taboo words can be found in popular culture, and they can also appear in names. Shitterton, a real town in England, serves as an example. However, names that sound vulgar often evolve over time to become more pleasant or acceptable. Nottingham, formerly known as Snottingham, illustrates this transformation. Be aware of the connotations and associations that names may carry in your world.

5. Embrace the chaos in your fantasy names

In a world created by humans, chaos and randomness are inevitable. Some names may not seem to fit or may reference things that no longer exist. Others may sound funny, and there might even be multiple places with the same name. Embrace this chaos and occasional disregard for naming conventions to add depth and authenticity to your world. Strange and interesting place names will capture your readers' attention, making your world more immersive.

Conclusion

Naming things in your fictional world can greatly contribute to its authenticity and vibrancy. By considering geography, politics, laziness, taboos, and chaos, you can create memorable and captivating names that reflect the unique qualities of your world. Get creative and have fun with the naming process, and your readers will be immersed in the rich tapestry of your worldbuilding. So grab your hammer and start worldbuilding!