Ever find yourself scrolling through lists of fantasy names and noticing they’re primarily masculine or feminine? Where are the gender-neutral fantasy names?
The fantasy genre has traditionally had a binary approach to names and gender. But in recent years, more fantasy works have embraced more inclusive representations of gender.
As a result, we’ve compiled a list of gender-neutral fantasy names from famous works to help inspire you to create more neutral names for your worlds and characters.
Maybe you’re crafting a nonbinary character and want a name to match their identity.
On the other hand, you may want to leave some characters’ genders open to interpretation.
Our list draws from popular fantasy book series, movies, TV shows, and games that feature memorable gender-neutral names.
Some are playful and powerful, but all transcend the gender binary.
The Importance of Gender-Neutral Fantasy Names
The fantasy genre has traditionally featured binary gender roles, with either male or female characters.
However, many readers want fantasy worlds that reflect the diversity of human experiences — including those that fall outside the gender binary.
Introducing gender-neutral names is a straightforward way for authors to make their fantasy worlds more inclusive.
Thus, using “they/them” pronouns for characters with ambiguous or non-binary genders normalizes this for readers and allows more people to see themselves reflected in the stories.
Some tips for creating gender-neutral fantasy names:
Use nature-inspired names like Ash, Brook, or Sky. Elements like earth, water, and air transcend gender.
Look to foreign languages for gender-neutral names or word roots. For example, the Gaelic name Cameron means “crooked nose,” and the Arabic name Aaliyah means “high, exalted.”
Play with sounds and spellings to create entirely new names. Names with Y’s, X’s, and Z’s like Aryx, Jyn, or Zair impart a fantastical feel.
So, could you consider place names or surnames as first names? Names like Auburn, Temple, or Archer work for any gender.
Think about naming characters after virtues or positive traits. Names such as Valor, Justice, or Charity are inspiring and genderless.
Ultimately, the most important thing is writing complex, multidimensional characters that resonate with readers — whatever names and pronouns you choose.
Gender-neutral fantasy names are a small part of creating a truly inclusive world. However, for readers outside the gender binary, seeing themselves in the details can make all the difference.
Our Favorite Gender-Neutral Fantasy Names for Characters
When creating fantasy characters, your chosen names can bring them to life. Why limit yourself to traditional gendered names?
Some of our favorite gender-neutral fantasy names are:
Sage
A name with nature-inspired wisdom. Use for a mystical healer or spiritual guide.
River
A calming, fluid name evokes a sense of peaceful flow. Perfect for a diplomat or mediator in your tale.
Phoenix
A mighty mythological name is symbolizing rebirth, renewal, and immortality. Use for a character who transforms or inspires change.
Journey
It is an inspiring name reflecting life’s winding paths and voyages of self-discovery. Use for a character on an epic quest or personal mission.
Star
A magical name full of celestial wonder and mystery. Use for a character who follows their dreams or illuminates the lives of others.
Additional Gender Neutral Names
Ash
A strong, elemental name that can symbolize resilience and renewal. Ideal for a character who rises from challenges.
Ember
A name with a fiery spark, perfect for a character with a passionate, rebellious spirit.
Rune
Mystical and ancient, this name is ideal for a character with deep knowledge or magical abilities.
Quill
A name that evokes creativity and storytelling, suitable for a bard or chronicler.
Storm
A powerful, dynamic name for a character with a fierce, unpredictable nature.
Echo
A name that suggests reflection and memory, perfect for a character connected to the past.
Frost
A cool, sharp name suitable for a character with a calm and composed demeanor.
Blaze
A fiery, energetic name for a character with a vibrant, unstoppable personality.
Shadow
A mysterious name, great for a character who operates in secrecy or has a hidden past.
Unique Names You didn’t think of
Sky
A limitless, expansive name for a character with high aspirations or a free-spirited nature.
Onyx
A name that signifies strength and resilience, perfect for a character with an unbreakable will.
Haven
A name that suggests safety and refuge, suitable for a protector or guardian.
Solstice
A name representing change and the passage of time, ideal for a character who marks significant transitions.
Lumen
A name that means light, perfect for a character who brings hope and illumination.
Tempest
A name that conveys a powerful, stormy nature, fitting for a character with intense emotions.
Wren
A delicate yet resilient name, ideal for a character with a connection to nature or a free spirit.
Vale
A tranquil, serene name suitable for a character with a calming presence.
Zenith
A name representing the peak or highest point, perfect for a character striving for greatness.
There are many more names to draw inspiration from: Storm, Rain, Avery, Robin, Rowan, Ash, etc. So, you can get creative by combining nature words or playing with spellings like Storme, Reign, or Roan.
Consider how names might reflect culture and values when developing your fantasy world.
And don’t be afraid to step outside conventions. After all, anything is possible in a land of myth and magic! Choosing an unexpected name can make a memorable statement.
Have fun with it, and go where your imagination leads you. The sky’s the limit!
Tips for Coming Up With Your Gender-Neutral Fantasy Names
Creating your fantasy names outside the gender binary can be fun and creative. Here are some tips to get you started:
Think about meanings
Consider names with neutral or nature-inspired meanings, like:
- Sage
- River
- Sky
- Forest
You can also create names that have a meaning related to positive traits or characteristics, such as:
-Valor
-Journey
-Wisdom
-Harmony
Using words from other languages is another excellent option. For example, names like:
- Lux (light)
- Kai (sea)
- Astra (of the stars)
Get inspired by objects or animals
Look around for natural sources of inspiration like plants, stones, animals, or weather. For example:
- Willow
- Rowan
- Fox
- Sparrow
- Storm
You can also modify an existing name by changing a syllable or letter to create something new and unbelievable.
Consider initials or wordplay.
Using initials from two names or words and combining them is an easy way to create a new fantasy name, such as:
- J.C. (Justice Courage)
- T.R. (Truth Reason)
You can also get clever with puns, alliteration (same first sound), rhymes, or spoonerisms (transposed first sounds). For example:
- Jess Orion
- Ali Gaia
- Nat Ural
- Terra Firma
With some creativity and experimentation, you’ll create memorable gender-neutral fantasy names in no time! Leave room for your imagination to run wild.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a whole host of fantastical gender-neutral names to inspire your next character or story.
Names have power and meaning, so choose wisely.
Whether you’re looking to make a statement about identity and non-conformity or want a name as enigmatic as your character, this list has you covered.
Now get out there and create – bring these names to life with complex personalities, backstories, and adventures. The possibilities are as endless as these names are unique.
You might craft a character that resonates with someone out there looking to break free of limiting labels and definitions.
Fantasy has always pushed the boundaries of imagination, so keep going.