What is Inventive Names naming anyway?
Why use existing words when you can create something completely new? Instead of calling your brand 'SportsBrand' (boring), you invent 'Adidas' and suddenly it's unique, memorable, and completely yours. That's inventive naming.
Inventive names are completely original, newly created words. When someone hears 'Adidas,' they don't think about any existing word — they think about your brand, because the word is yours. That ownership is why this naming technique works so damn well for brands that want complete uniqueness and trademark protection.
Why do inventive names work so well in naming?
Inventive names are blank slates. They have no existing meaning, so you can build your own. When done right, they create distinctiveness, memorability, and names that are completely ownable. When done wrong? You get a name that's just weird without payoff.
The trick is inventing words that actually sound right. If it's too random, it's forgettable. If it sounds good, it sticks. Adidas nailed it. So did others who figured out that good inventive names feel intentional, not accidental. That's the difference between strategic invention and random word creation in naming.
What is Inventive Names naming?
This is the part where you'd get the actual explanation — not fluff. Real naming insights you can use. But that's for subscribers. For everyone else: mystery and sadness.
The technique works by combining specific elements in a way that creates memorable, distinctive brand names. Learn exactly how with a subscription.
Real-World Examples
Adidas — Invented name from founder's nickname.
Kodak — Invented name that became iconic.
Xerox — Invented name that became a verb.
Verizon — Invented name that sounds modern.
Zappos — Invented name that sounds playful.
Etsy — Invented name that sounds crafty.
Flickr — Invented name that sounds like flicker.
Tumblr — Invented name that sounds like tumble.
When should you use Inventive Names naming for your brand name or product name?
Completely unique — no existing meaning to compete with
Highly trademarkable — easy to protect legally
Works globally — no translation issues
Allows brand to own the word completely
When should you avoid Inventive Names naming for your brand name or product name?
Requires marketing to build meaning — starting from zero
Might confuse if name doesn't sound right
Less memorable if it doesn't click
When this technique works best
Creates memorable brand associations
Works well for consumer products
Easy to implement consistently
When to consider alternatives
May not suit all industries
Requires careful consideration
Cultural context matters
Step by step guide
How to use Inventive Names in naming?
Figure out if inventive actually fits your brand. Not every company needs a made-up word. If you have a perfect real word, maybe skip this route.
Selfstorm invented words that sound right. Use Selfstorm's naming creative session to explore options. What sounds good? What feels like your brand?
Test if it's actually memorable. Inventive doesn't mean forgettable. If it doesn't stick, try again. The best inventive names sound intentional.
Make sure it's pronounceable globally. That cool invented word might be impossible to say elsewhere. Test it. If people can't say it, they won't remember it.
Check for negative associations. Does your inventive name accidentally sound like something bad? Does it remind people of something negative? Do your homework.
Plan how you'll build meaning. Inventive names need stories. How will you explain what it means? If you can't answer this, you've got a problem.
Identify your brand values and attributes
Detailed explanation of how to execute this step effectively in your naming process.
Brainstorm initial name concepts
Detailed explanation of how to execute this step effectively in your naming process.
Apply the technique systematically
Detailed explanation of how to execute this step effectively in your naming process.
Test and refine your options
Detailed explanation of how to execute this step effectively in your naming process.
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