Medieval Name Generator
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Kira Jan. Kira Jan earned her B.A. in English from Stanford University in 2021. She has published work in a variety of literary magazines and edited for bestselling authors. Kira now writes and edits for the content team at wikiHow with the goal of reaching audiences of all backgrounds, skillsets, and interests. She enjoys continually learning alongside wikiHow readers and working to create connection through the written word.
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Are you a valiant knight, a noble lady, or a hardworking peasant? Whether you're looking to name your fantasy character or get an epic moniker for your next RPG or LARP experience, we've got you covered. Try out our free generator to instantly get medieval names!
The History of Medieval Names
Did you know that modern last names began to emerge in the Middle Ages? During the early Middle Ages, surnames came from your father's first name. This was called the "patronymic system" for last names.
For example, if your father was called John, your last name would be Johnson. If your father was called Gerald, your last name might be Fitzgerald (Norman French for "son of Gerald"). In some cultures, if your father was William and you were a girl, you might be Williamsdottir (William's daughter).
Over time, with population growth and the spread of bureaucracy—especially nobles wanting to keep track of folks for tax purposes—last names began to be passed down. Last names that are passed down are called "hereditary last names." This meant if your father's name was Cedric Miller, your last name would also be Miller. You might recognize this as the system we commonly use now where children often share a last name with at least one parent.
These last names came from 4 categories: names related to places, family relationships, professions, and nicknames.[1] Here are some examples:
- Place (based on where someone came from or lived): William York
- Family Relationships (based on a father's first name): Joan Reedsdottir
- Professions (based on what someone did for a living): Robert Cook
- Nicknames (based on traits or characteristics): Agnes Sharp
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