Another D&D question: How do you name your cities in your campaigns?

Question

I wonder myself sometimes if I should go with a themed country (like, Greek names, Germanic names, etc) when I create a country to play in a campaign. Sometimes I just make up names (Jestia, cities Nassal and Hayde) but I would like some additional options.

Any suggestions on how to create A) original names for fantasy settings, or B) themed names for a similar culture?

Answer 1

Here is an idea, try using anagrams. Pick a theme, use a set amount of words/names/places you like, and rearrange them.

You'll get a completely different word, and you can still (sort of) go with a 'theme'.

Even if you are trying to design all original names, this method works pretty well. Just pick random words/names instead.

Random name generators are another good option for original names/places. There are a wide selection of these on the internet, and if you find one you like a lot.. it's a great way to keep with a naming convention and still come up with original names.

(My campaign doesn't mirror any real life cultures. So I use random name generators)

Also, name generators are not limited to random & original names. Many of them have options (or are designed for) themed names.

You can find language-inspired generators and real name generators for just about everything.

I've included the name generators that I use most frequently in my sources.