Last Name Ideas: How to Pick a Surname for Your Character

Looking for the right last name for your fictional character? Finding a good surname can be tough. Numerous baby name books and generators exist for those looking for a first name, but the equivalent for writers looking for a surname are tougher to find. What to do? Here are four tips and resources you can use when creating your character's last name.

Tip 1 for choosing a last name: Know the purpose of last names

According to genealogist Suzanne McVetty, one of these four sources typically influences last names: father's name, location, occupation, and physical features.

The purpose of last names in fiction is more diverse and revealing. According to author Roy Peter Clark, names can indicate the following: aura, charm, identity, psychosis, inheritance, character, and insight.

Tip 2 for choosing a last name: Look at lists of last names

It's all well and good knowing what goes into a last name, but how do you use this information? After all, a name like Olivia Chicago or Terry McMeanface seems to lack-oh I don't know-subtlety. If you find your creativity lacking, browsing a list of last names can help.

But where can you find a list of last names? You can try a phone book, your yearbooks, the U.S. Census, and even your e-mail's spam folder. Of course, you would have to do extra research if you want the last name to reveal something about your character.

Tip 3 for choosing a last name: Search names according to ethnicity and meaning

A few surname websites have done your research for you. My favorite website for last names is 20,000 Names from Around the World. This website lists surnames according to ethnicity and special categories (evil names, secret names, warrior names, etc.). It's easy to navigate, but the black background may hurt your eyes (it's worth it though).

Another good option is Last-Names.net. Their selection of surnames aren't as varied as 20,000 Names and are limited to European and Jewish origins.

Tip 4 for choosing a last name: Last name generators

Name generators aren't exactly the most imaginative way to create a name for your character, but after playing around with them, you may come up with an original idea. Seventh Sanctum offers a ton of name generators that often include last names. Its Quick Character Namer randomizes common names and surnames from the U.S. Census.

Sources:

Clark, Roy Peter. Writing Tools. New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2006.

McVetty, Suzanne. "Anatomy of a Surname." http://www.last-names.net/Articles/Anatomy.asp