The Forgotten Realms is one of the most iconic fantasy settings in Dungeons & Dragons—home to ancient magic, towering kingdoms, hidden gods, and unforgettable heroes. Every tavern holds a tale, every forest whispers a legend, and every name tells a story. This name generator helps you craft names that feel authentic to the realms of Faerûn and beyond—whether you’re creating a noble elf from Evermeet, a rugged dwarf from Mithral Hall, a cunning tiefling from Baldur’s Gate, or a mysterious wizard wandering the streets of Waterdeep.

With each click, you’ll receive names inspired by the cultures, races, and lore of the Forgotten Realms, all designed to draw you deeper into your world-building or roleplaying experience.

Understanding Names in the Forgotten Realms

Names in the Forgotten Realms are deeply tied to culture, history, language, and identity. Whether you’re creating a character, writing a story, or simply exploring the lore, knowing how names function across races and regions adds richness and authenticity. Let’s explore the key aspects that shape names in this world.

1. Naming Traditions Across the Races

Each race in the Forgotten Realms follows unique naming customs that reflect their values, history, and language. Elves often have melodic first names and adopt family names based on lineage or nature (e.g., Amastacia meaning “Starflower”). Dwarves favor strong, grounded names like Thorin or Bromm, always accompanied by a clan name that carries honor and legacy. Humans have the most diversity, with names influenced by their region—some sound European, others Middle Eastern or Asian-inspired. Drow names are harsher, filled with sharp consonants, often connected to their matriarchal houses (Baenre, Do’Urden). Knowing these traditions helps shape a character’s identity from the very first word.

2. The Role of Culture and Region in Naming

The Forgotten Realms is vast, and its human cultures draw inspiration from real-world civilizations. Names from Waterdeep or Cormyr often resemble Western European naming styles, while Calimshan names carry Arabic influences, and Rashemen names echo Slavic sounds. For non-human races, location also matters—a wood elf from Evereska may have a different naming style than a sea elf from Serôs. Where a character comes from shapes how they are named, how others address them, and even how they introduce themselves.

3. Meaning and Symbolism in Names

Many names aren’t just sounds—they carry meaning. Elven names, for instance, often translate into words about nature, stars, or emotion, rooted in the Elvish language. Dwarven names might translate to words about stone, strength, or lineage. Even tieflings often name themselves based on virtues or ideals like Hope, Sorrow, or Valor. This symbolism helps define a character’s personality, aspirations, or the expectations placed upon them at birth.