Old Name Generator
Generate unique old names for your fantasy characters, stories, and games. The perfect tool for writers, gamers, and world-builders.
Showing 541 names available in Old Name Generator.
Curated Old Name Generator List
| Name | Meaning / Origin | Gender |
|---|---|---|
| Abundius | Abundant plentiful one | Any |
| Acindynus | Without danger safe | Any |
| Adalberone | Noble bear fierce | Any |
| Adalgundis | Noble battle maiden | Any |
| Adelheid | Noble natured one | Any |
| Adelphus | Brother brotherly | Any |
| Aelfreda | Elf counsel wise one | Any |
| Aemilianus | Rival emulating one | Any |
How to Pick a Good Old-Fashioned Name
Ancient Greek and Roman Names
Classical antiquity produced names that still resonate with dignity and gravitas. Greek names like Aristotle, Pericles, and Helena derive from words describing wisdom, glory, and light. Roman names followed the tria nomina system with praenomen (given name), nomen (clan name), and cognomen (family branch). Names like Marcus Aurelius or Gaius Julius carry the weight of empire and remain impressive choices for scholarly or noble characters.
Medieval European Naming Traditions
The Middle Ages saw a fusion of Germanic, Latin, and Celtic naming traditions shaped by Christianity. Names like William (will-helmet), Richard (brave ruler), and Eleanor (bright light) became popular among nobility. Common people often bore single names, sometimes with descriptive bynames that later became surnames. Saints' names proliferated after the Church encouraged naming children for holy patrons.
Renaissance and Reformation Names
The Renaissance revived interest in classical names while the Reformation promoted Old Testament names in Protestant regions. Names like Leonardo, Raphael, and Michelangelo reflected Italian artistic culture, while Puritan communities favored virtue names like Patience, Prudence, and Increase. This era shows fascinating regional variation in naming preferences.
Victorian Era Elegance
The Victorian period combined classical revival with romantic sensibility. Names like Algernon, Percival, and Evangeline suggest refined upper-class origins. Biblical names remained popular, and the era saw increasing use of flower names for girls like Rose, Lily, and Violet. Double-barreled surnames and elaborate middle names conveyed social status.
Old Norse and Germanic Names
Viking Age names carry a sense of strength and adventure. Names combined elements like 'sig' (victory), 'bjorn' (bear), 'ulf' (wolf), and 'run' (secret). Examples include Sigurd, Bjornulf, and Gudrun. These names work excellently for warrior characters or fantasy settings inspired by Norse mythology.
Choosing Era-Appropriate Names
When selecting an old name, first determine your target era and culture. Research naming conventions of that specific time and place. Consider whether your character would have a single name, given name plus byname, or full formal name. Check that your chosen name existed during your chosen period rather than being a later romantic invention. Historical name databases and genealogical resources can verify period accuracy.
Key Considerations
- Match the name to the specific historical era and culture
- Consider social class implications of different naming styles
- Research religious influences on naming in your chosen period
- Understand the meaning and motivation behind historical names
- Balance historical authenticity with modern pronounceability
Famous Examples
Charlemagne
Medieval History
The legendary Frankish king whose name means 'Charles the Great' ruled much of Western Europe and was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in 800 CE. His name became synonymous with royal greatness and medieval imperial power, inspiring countless rulers who followed.
Eleanor of Aquitaine
Medieval History
One of the most powerful women of the medieval period, Eleanor was Queen of both France and England. Her name, meaning 'bright, shining light,' has been borne by queens throughout European history and remains associated with regal elegance.
Marcus Aurelius
Roman History
The philosopher-emperor of Rome whose Meditations remain influential today. His name exemplifies the formal Roman tria nomina system, with Marcus being a common praenomen and Aurelius a distinguished family name meaning 'golden.'
Hildegard of Bingen
Medieval History
A German abbess, mystic, composer, and polymath of the 12th century. Her Germanic name means 'battle guard,' reflecting the warrior culture from which she emerged even as she became renowned for spiritual wisdom and artistic creation.
Beowulf
Anglo-Saxon Literature
The legendary hero of the Old English epic poem, whose name may mean 'bee-wolf' (a kenning for bear). This quintessentially Anglo-Saxon name evokes the heroic values of early medieval warrior culture and remains iconic in fantasy literature.
Popular Old-Fashioned Names
These historical names represent some of the most distinguished and authentic options from various eras of human history.
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Aldric | Wise ruler of noble heritage |
| Evangeline | Bearer of good news |
| Oswald | Divine power and rulership |
| Beatrix | She who brings happiness |
| Cassius | Hollow or vain, later meaning helmet |
| Godwin | Friend of the divine |
| Isadora | Gift of the goddess Isis |
| Leofric | Beloved ruler |
| Seraphina | Burning one, fiery angel |
| Theodosius | Gift of God |
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat makes a name sound authentically old-fashioned?
Authentic old names often feature archaic spelling patterns, unfamiliar letter combinations, and sounds that have fallen out of modern use. Anglo-Saxon names may include 'ae' or 'th' combinations, while Latin names often end in '-us' or '-ius.' The absence of modern nickname forms and the presence of clear etymological meaning also contribute to an antique feeling. Research actual historical records rather than relying on fantasy inventions.
QHow did naming conventions differ between social classes?
Throughout history, nobility favored elaborate names referencing divine right, martial prowess, or distinguished ancestry. These might include multiple elements, titles, or lineage markers. Common people typically bore simpler single names, often derived from occupations (Smith, Cooper), geographic features (Hill, Brook), or patron saints. The Victorian era saw increased social mobility reflected in middle-class adoption of aristocratic naming styles. Taking time with this decision enhances the overall creative experience.
QWhat are some historical naming taboos I should know about?
Many historical cultures avoided naming children after living relatives to prevent confusion or spiritual conflict. Some believed using a name before birth invited bad luck. Naming children after deceased siblings who died young was common in eras of high infant mortality. Religious communities often required names of saints or biblical figures, considering pagan-derived names inappropriate. Research specific cultural taboos for authentic character creation.
QHow did religion influence historical naming practices?
Religion profoundly shaped naming across all historical periods. Christian communities favored saints' names, with children often named for the saint on whose feast day they were born. Jewish naming traditions included naming after deceased relatives and using Hebrew names in religious contexts. Islamic names often incorporate religious titles like 'abd' (servant of) followed by divine names. Pagan societies honored deities, ancestors, and natural forces through naming.
QWhat is the difference between given names and bynames in medieval times?
Medieval given names were the personal names assigned at birth or baptism. Bynames were additional identifiers added later to distinguish between people with the same given name. Bynames might describe occupation (John Baker), physical features (Robert the Short), parentage (William son of Richard), or location (Thomas of Canterbury). Over time, these bynames became hereditary surnames passed through family lines. This understanding helps create more memorable and fitting character identities.
QHow can I verify if a name actually existed in my chosen historical period?
Historical accuracy can be verified through genealogical databases, medieval name dictionaries, and academic resources on period naming. The Medieval Names Archive, Behind the Name's historical database, and various genealogical societies maintain records of attested historical names. Church records, census documents, and literary texts from your target era provide primary sources. Avoid names that sound medieval but are actually modern inventions.