20 Startup Name Prompts to Spark Creative Ideas (2024)

Why a Great Startup Name Matters

What’s in a name? A lot, actually. Your startup’s name is the first thing people hear about your business. It’s the word they’ll type into Google, the label on their credit card statement, and the phrase they’ll tell their friends. A great name sticks in the mind like a catchy song. A bad one? Well, it might as well be invisible.

Think about some of the most successful startups: Google, Airbnb, Slack. These names are short, easy to remember, and tell a story. Google sounds playful and smart. Airbnb makes you think of travel and belonging. Slack suggests speed and efficiency. Now, imagine if these companies had chosen names like “SearchEnginePro” or “RoomRentalNetwork.” Not quite as exciting, right?

The Psychology Behind a Memorable Name

A good name does more than just sound nice. It shapes how people see your brand. Here’s why it matters:

First impressions count – A strong name makes your startup feel professional and trustworthy from day one.
Easy to remember – If people can’t recall your name, they won’t talk about you or search for you online.
Sets the tone – A fun name (like “Zoom”) feels different from a serious one (like “IBM”). Which one fits your brand?
Avoids confusion – A unique name means fewer mix-ups with competitors. (Ever heard of “Lyft” and “Lift”? Not the same!)

But here’s the problem: coming up with a great name is harder than it looks. Many founders get stuck in the same traps.

Common Naming Mistakes to Avoid

Before you fall into these pitfalls, take note:

❌ Overused trends – Names ending in “-ly” (like “Quickly”) or “-ify” (like “Spotify”) were fresh a decade ago. Now? They feel tired. ❌ Hard-to-spell words – If people can’t type your name correctly, they’ll give up searching for you. ❌ Too literal – “BestOnlineShoeStore.com” might describe your business, but it’s boring and forgettable. ❌ Legal risks – A name that’s already trademarked could land you in legal trouble. Always check!

So, how do you find a name that’s unique, available, and meaningful? That’s where this guide comes in.

How This Guide Helps You

Instead of staring at a blank page, we’ve put together 20 creative prompts to spark ideas. These aren’t just random suggestions—they’re based on proven naming strategies, like:

Prefixes and suffixes (e.g., “Snap-” + “-chat” = Snapchat)
Mashups (e.g., “Net” + “Flix” = Netflix)
Metaphors (e.g., “Amazon” for something vast and powerful)
Made-up words (e.g., “Kodak,” which sounds strong and memorable)

Each prompt is designed to help you brainstorm names that are easy to say, spell, and remember—while also checking domain and trademark availability.

Who Is This For?

This guide isn’t just for first-time founders. It’s also for:

✅ Early-stage startups struggling to find a name that fits their vision. ✅ Rebranding businesses looking for a fresh identity. ✅ Creative teams who want a structured way to generate ideas. ✅ Side hustlers turning a passion project into a real business.

A great name won’t guarantee success—but a bad one can hold you back. So, are you ready to find a name that stands out, sticks in people’s minds, and sets your startup up for success? Let’s get started.

The Science of Startup Naming: What Makes a Name Stick?

A great startup name is like a good handshake—firm, memorable, and leaves a lasting impression. But why do some names stick in our minds while others fade away? The answer lies in psychology, linguistics, and a little bit of magic. Let’s break down what makes a startup name truly unforgettable.

Why Simple Names Win (Backed by Science)

Our brains love things that are easy to process. This is called cognitive fluency, and it’s why short, simple names perform better. Studies show that people prefer names they can pronounce quickly—like “Apple” or “Nike”—over complex ones like “Xobni” (a failed email startup that shut down in 2013). The harder a name is to say or spell, the less likely people are to remember it.

But simplicity isn’t just about length. It’s also about familiarity. Names that use common words or sounds feel more trustworthy. For example, “Zoom” works because it’s a real word that describes speed and movement. Compare that to “Zocdoc”—a name that’s short but still requires explanation. Which one would you remember after hearing it just once?

The Power of Sound: How Phonetics Shape Perception

Not all sounds are created equal. Some evoke speed, others trust, and a few even make us hungry. This is called sound symbolism, and smart startups use it to their advantage.

“Snap” – The sharp “p” sound feels quick and decisive, perfect for a photo-sharing app.
“Slurp” – The “sl” sound is often associated with liquids (think “slush” or “slime”), making it a great fit for a noodle delivery service.
“Google” – The playful “goo” sound makes it feel fun and approachable, even though it’s now a tech giant.

Even the rhythm of a name matters. Names with a strong beat, like “TikTok” or “Netflix,” are easier to remember. Try saying them out loud—do they roll off the tongue, or do they trip you up?

The Rise of “-ify” and “-ly”: Why Suffixes Dominate Tech

If you’ve noticed a lot of startups ending in “-ify” (Spotify, Shopify) or “-ly” (Quickly, Bitly), you’re not alone. These suffixes became popular because they:

Make verbs out of nouns – “Spotify” turns “spot” into a verb (to find music).
Feel techy and modern – They give a name a digital, scalable vibe.
Are easy to trademark – Unlike generic words, these combinations are often available.

But there’s a catch. Overuse can make names feel generic. “Quickly” might describe speed, but it doesn’t tell you what the company does. That’s why newer startups are mixing things up—think “Notion” (simple, unique) or “Loom” (short, visual).

Case Studies: What Works (and What Doesn’t)

✅ Google – Started as a misspelling of “googol” (a huge number), but the name stuck because it’s short, fun, and easy to say. Even better? It’s now a verb (“Google it”).

✅ Airbnb – Combines “air” (travel) and “bed and breakfast,” making it instantly understandable. The name tells a story.

❌ Xobni – A clever play on “inbox” spelled backward, but most people mispronounced it (“Zob-nee” instead of “Ex-ob-nee”). Confusion kills memorability.

❌ Quibi – Short for “quick bites,” but the name didn’t explain what the platform did (short-form video). It shut down after just six months.

The lesson? A name should either describe what you do (like “Airbnb”) or evoke the right feeling (like “Google”). If it does neither, it’s a missed opportunity.

The Secret Sauce: Emotion + Clarity

The best startup names do two things:

Trigger an emotion – “Slack” makes work feel less stressful. “Zoom” implies speed and connection.
Hint at what you do – “Dropbox” suggests storing files. “Stripe” implies seamless payments.

But here’s the tricky part: too much emotion without clarity can backfire. A name like “Etsy” is unique and fun, but it doesn’t explain that it’s a marketplace for handmade goods. That’s why the company had to spend years educating users about what it does.

So, how do you strike the right balance? Ask yourself:

Does this name make people feel something?
Can someone guess what we do just by hearing it?
Will it still make sense in 10 years?

If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track. If not, keep brainstorming. The perfect name is out there—you just have to find it.

20 Prompts to Generate Availability-Friendly Startup Names

Naming your startup is like picking a username for a game—it needs to be unique, easy to remember, and available everywhere. But with millions of businesses already out there, finding the perfect name can feel impossible. The good news? You don’t need to be a naming genius. With the right prompts, you can generate creative, available names in minutes.

The secret is to think beyond the obvious. Instead of just combining random words, use proven formulas that make names catchy and brandable. Some of the most successful startups—like Spotify, Shopify, and Notion—used simple tricks to create names that stick. Let’s break down how you can do the same.

Prefix and Suffix Hacks: The Fastest Way to Unique Names

One of the easiest ways to create a fresh name is by adding a prefix or suffix. These small word endings can turn a basic word into something memorable. For example:

“-ly” (friendly, quickly) → Grammarly, Calendly
“-ify” (simplify, amplify) → Spotify, Shopify
“-io” (techy, modern) → Notion, Figma
“-ster” (playful, informal) → Napster, Hipster

These endings work because they’re familiar but still feel fresh. Try this: Take a word related to your business and add a suffix. For example, if you run a fitness app, you could try Fitly, Sweatify, or Gymster. The best part? Many of these combinations will still be available as domain names.

Industry-Specific Naming Formulas

Not all names work for every industry. A fintech startup needs a name that sounds trustworthy, while a health tech company might want something calming. Here are some tailored prompts:

SaaS (Software as a Service)

Combine a tech word + action (e.g., Dropbox, Slack)
Use a short, abstract word (e.g., Notion, Trello)
Add “-hub” or “-flow” (e.g., GitHub, Workflow)

E-commerce

Play with product + feeling (e.g., Glossier, Warby Parker)
Use a founder’s name + product (e.g., Bonobos, Allbirds)
Add “-cart” or “-shop” (e.g., Etsy, Shopify)

Fintech

Use words that sound secure (e.g., Stripe, Chime)
Combine money + tech (e.g., PayPal, Square)
Add “-pay” or “-cash” (e.g., Venmo, Cash App)

Health Tech

Use calming or scientific words (e.g., Calm, Headspace)
Combine health + tech (e.g., Fitbit, MyFitnessPal)
Add “-care” or “-well” (e.g., BetterHelp, Noom)

Try picking one formula and brainstorming 10-15 names. You’ll be surprised how many great options you come up with!

Mashups and Portmanteaus: When Two Words Are Better Than One

Some of the best startup names are mashups—two words combined into one. Think Netflix (Internet + Flicks) or Instagram (Instant + Telegram). These names are unique, easy to remember, and often still available.

Here’s how to create your own:

Pick two words related to your business.
Combine them in a way that sounds natural.
Check if the domain is available.

For example:

Food + Delivery → Deliveroo
Social + Media → Snapchat
Cloud + Computing → Dropbox

The key is to keep it short and easy to say. If it sounds clunky, try a different combination.

Foreign and Mythological Inspirations

If you want a name that stands out, try looking beyond English. Latin, Greek, and other languages can give you unique, meaningful words. For example:

Latin: Veritas (truth), Aura (breeze)
Greek: Nike (victory), Hermes (messenger)
Japanese: Zen (meditation), Kai (ocean)

Mythology is another great source. Names like Amazon (mythical warrior women) and Asana (yoga pose) have deep meanings that make them memorable.

To use this trick:

Think of a word that describes your brand.
Look up its translation in another language.
Check if the domain is available.

Just make sure the word doesn’t have a negative meaning in another culture!

AI and Name Generators: When to Use Them

If you’re stuck, AI tools can help. Websites like Namelix and Wordoid generate name ideas based on keywords. But don’t rely on them completely—they often suggest names that are too generic or already taken.

Here’s how to use them effectively:

Enter a keyword related to your business.
Filter results by length, style, and availability.
Pick the best options and tweak them to make them unique.

For example, if you run a coffee shop, you might get suggestions like Brewly or Coffify. These are a good start, but you can make them better by adding a twist—like Brewly & Co. or Coffify Express.

Final Tip: Always Check Availability

Before you fall in love with a name, make sure it’s available. Check:

Domain names (Namecheap, GoDaddy)
Social media handles (Namechk)
Trademarks (USPTO or WIPO)

If the .com domain is taken, try adding a word like “get” (e.g., getnotion.com) or “app” (e.g., appfigma.com). But if the name is already trademarked, it’s best to move on.

Now it’s your turn! Pick one of these prompts and start brainstorming. The perfect name is out there—you just need to find it.

How to Test and Validate Your Startup Name Ideas

You’ve brainstormed a list of startup names—maybe even 20 or 30 of them. But how do you know which one is the one? A great name isn’t just creative; it’s clear, available, and resonates with your audience. Testing and validating your ideas is just as important as coming up with them in the first place. Skip this step, and you might end up with a name that confuses customers, gets lost in search results, or—worst of all—lands you in legal trouble.

So, where do you start? Think of this process like test-driving a car. You wouldn’t buy one without checking the brakes, the engine, or how it feels to sit in the driver’s seat. Your startup name deserves the same level of scrutiny. Let’s break down the key ways to put your name ideas to the test.

The 5-Second Rule: Does Your Name Pass the First Impression Test?

Imagine someone sees your startup name for the first time—on a billboard, a social media ad, or a business card. Do they instantly get what you do? Or do they scratch their heads and move on? This is where the 5-second rule comes in. If your name doesn’t spark curiosity or clearly hint at your value within five seconds, it might not be strong enough.

Take names like “Slack” or “Zoom.” At first glance, they don’t scream “workplace communication” or “video calls,” but they’re short, memorable, and—once you know what they do—unforgettable. On the other hand, a name like “InnovateX Solutions” might sound professional, but it’s vague and forgettable. Ask yourself:

Does the name make people lean in or scroll past?
Does it sound like a company they’d trust?
Would someone remember it after hearing it once?

If the answer isn’t a confident “yes,” keep refining.

Domain and Trademark Checks: Don’t Fall in Love with a Name You Can’t Use

You’ve found a name you love. It’s catchy, it fits your brand, and it feels right. But before you get too attached, you need to check two critical things: domain availability and trademark conflicts.

1. Is the Domain Available?

Your startup’s online home is just as important as its name. If the .com domain for your name is taken, you’ll have to settle for a less ideal extension (like .io or .co) or add extra words (like “get” or “app”). Neither is ideal. A clunky domain makes it harder for customers to find you and can hurt your credibility.

Tools to check domain availability:

Namecheap – Simple and affordable for buying domains.
Lean Domain Search – Generates available domain ideas based on your name.
InstantDomainSearch – Shows availability in real time.

Pro tip: If the .com is taken, don’t panic. Some startups thrive with creative domains (like “usebutton.com” for Button). But if you can snag the .com, do it.

2. Is the Name Trademarked?

Even if the domain is available, the name might already be trademarked. Using a trademarked name—even accidentally—can lead to legal headaches, forced rebrands, or costly lawsuits. The last thing you want is to build a brand around a name you can’t legally use.

How to check for trademarks:

USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) – Search the database for registered trademarks.
WIPO Global Brand Database – For international trademark checks.
Trademarkia – A user-friendly alternative for quick searches.

If the name is trademarked in your industry, cross it off your list. If it’s not, consider filing your own trademark to protect it.

Audience Testing: What Do Real People Think?

You might love your startup name, but your opinion isn’t the only one that matters. Your customers are the ones who’ll be saying it, typing it, and recommending it to others. That’s why audience testing is a must.

How to Test Your Name with Real People

Surveys – Use free tools like Google Forms or Typeform to ask your target audience:
- “Which of these names sounds most trustworthy?”
- “What industry do you think this company is in?”
- “Would you click on a website with this name?”
Social Media Polls – Post a poll on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram with your top 3-5 name options. Ask followers to vote and leave comments. Example:

“We’re naming our new startup—help us pick! Which name do you like best? 👇”
Focus Groups – Gather a small group of potential customers (friends, colleagues, or even strangers in relevant Facebook groups) and ask for their honest feedback. Pay attention to:
- Which names they remember after the conversation.
- Any negative reactions or confusion.
- Whether they’d be excited to try a product with that name.
A/B Testing – If you’re torn between two names, run a simple ad campaign (on Facebook or Google) with both names and see which one gets more clicks or engagement.

What to listen for:

Do people mispronounce or misspell the name?
Does it trigger any unexpected associations (positive or negative)?
Does it stand out, or does it blend in with competitors?

If your audience’s feedback is lukewarm or confusing, it’s a sign to go back to the drawing board.

Avoiding Cultural Missteps: Is Your Name Offensive or Confusing?

In today’s global market, your startup name could be seen by people from all over the world. What sounds clever in one language might be offensive, confusing, or even hilarious in another. A name that works in the U.S. could flop in Japan, Germany, or Brazil—and vice versa.

How to Check for Cultural Issues

Google Translate – Plug your name into Google Translate and see what it means in other languages. Example: “Nova” means “doesn’t go” in Spanish (not great for a car company).
Ask Native Speakers – If you have friends or colleagues who speak other languages, ask them for their take. Example: “Does this name sound weird or offensive in your language?”
Research Local Slang – Some words have different meanings in different regions. Example: “Fanny” is a harmless name in the U.S. but a vulgar term in the U.K.
Check for Unintended Meanings – A name like “Kum & Go” might seem fun in English, but it could raise eyebrows in other cultures.

Case study: The “Pee Cola” Disaster A Ghanaian soft drink company named its product “Pee Cola.” In English, it sounds harmless (if a little odd). But in French, “pee” means “foot.” The name didn’t translate well, and the product struggled to gain traction outside Ghana. Don’t let this happen to your startup!

Putting It All Together: Your Name Validation Checklist

Before you commit to a name, run it through this checklist:

✅ 5-Second Rule – Does it instantly convey value or intrigue? ✅ Domain Availability – Is the .com (or a clean alternative) available? ✅ Trademark Check – Is the name legally safe to use? ✅ Audience Feedback – Do real people like it and understand it? ✅ Cultural Check – Does it work globally, or could it cause problems?

If your name passes all five tests, congratulations—you’ve found a winner! If not, don’t get discouraged. Some of the best startup names took months (or even years) to perfect. Keep iterating, testing, and refining until you land on something that feels just right.

Final thought: Your startup name is the first impression you’ll make on the world. It’s worth the extra time to get it right. So test, validate, and choose wisely—your future customers will thank you.

From Name to Brand: Building Identity Around Your Startup Name

A great startup name is just the beginning. The real magic happens when you turn that name into a brand people remember. Think about Apple—just a simple fruit, but now it means innovation, sleek design, and premium technology. How did they do it? They built a whole identity around that name. Your startup can do the same.

The key is consistency. Every part of your brand—your logo, tagline, colors, even your tone of voice—should feel like it belongs together. When everything aligns, your name stops being just a word and starts feeling like a personality. Let’s break down how to make that happen.

Design a Logo That Tells Your Story

Your logo is the face of your brand. It should make people think of your name instantly. Take Amazon’s logo—the arrow from “A” to “Z” shows they sell everything, and it also looks like a smile. Simple, but brilliant.

Here’s how to create a logo that works:

Keep it simple. The best logos are easy to recognize, even when they’re tiny (like on a business card).
Use colors wisely. Colors have meanings. Blue feels trustworthy (good for banks), while red feels energetic (great for food brands).
Make it flexible. Your logo should look good on a website, a t-shirt, or even a billboard.
Tell a story. If your name has a hidden meaning (like Tesla honoring Nikola Tesla), find a way to hint at it in your logo.

If you’re not a designer, don’t worry. Tools like Canva or Looka can help you create a professional logo without hiring an expensive agency. Just remember: your logo should feel like you, not like every other startup.

Craft a Tagline That Sticks

A tagline is a short phrase that explains what you do in a way people remember. Nike’s “Just Do It” doesn’t even mention shoes, but it captures their brand perfectly. Your tagline should do the same.

Here’s how to write one that works:

Keep it short. 3-7 words is ideal. Anything longer is hard to remember.
Focus on benefits, not features. Instead of “We sell fast shoes,” say “Run faster, feel lighter.”
Make it emotional. People remember how you make them feel. “Think Different” (Apple) makes you feel creative and bold.
Test it. Say it out loud. Does it sound natural? Would you remember it after hearing it once?

If you’re stuck, try filling in this blank: “We help [your audience] [solve this problem] by [your unique way].” For example, “We help busy parents save time with healthy, ready-to-eat meals.” Then, shorten it until it feels punchy.

Give Your Name a Story

People love stories. A name with a story behind it feels more real and memorable. Tesla isn’t just a random word—it honors inventor Nikola Tesla, which fits their mission of clean energy and innovation.

Here’s how to create a story for your name:

Tie it to your mission. If your startup helps people sleep better, maybe your name is inspired by a peaceful place (like “Calm” or “Haven”).
Make it personal. Did you name your startup after a family member, a childhood memory, or a place that inspires you?
Keep it simple. You don’t need a long, complicated story. Even a short explanation can make your name feel special.

For example, if your name is “Luna,” you could say, “We chose Luna because the moon represents calm and balance—just like our app helps you find peace in a busy world.” Now, your name isn’t just a word; it’s part of your brand’s identity.

Plan for the Future

Your startup name should grow with you. If you name your company “Best Dog Food,” what happens when you start selling cat food? Suddenly, your name doesn’t fit anymore.

Here’s how to pick a name that scales:

Avoid being too specific. Instead of “NYC Bike Rentals,” try “Urban Wheels.” That way, you can expand to other cities or even other types of vehicles.
Think about your long-term vision. If you want to sell more than one product, pick a name that’s broad enough to cover them all.
Check the domain. Even if you’re not ready for a website yet, make sure the domain (like yourname.com) is available. You don’t want to change your name later because someone else owns it.

A good rule of thumb: Ask yourself, “Will this name still make sense in 5 years?” If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.

Putting It All Together

Your startup name is more than just a label—it’s the foundation of your brand. A great name, paired with a strong logo, tagline, and story, can make people feel connected to your business before they even try your product.

Start small. Pick one thing to focus on first, like designing a logo or writing a tagline. Then, build from there. Over time, your name will become a brand that people recognize, trust, and remember.

The best part? You don’t need a big budget or a fancy agency to make it happen. Just a little creativity, consistency, and a clear vision of what you want your brand to stand for. Now, go make your name unforgettable.

Case Studies: How 5 Startups Nailed Their Names

Choosing a startup name is like picking a tattoo—you want something that feels right now and still makes sense years later. Some names sound cool at first but become confusing. Others seem boring but grow into powerful brands. Let’s look at five startups that got it right. Their names aren’t just random words—they tell a story, fit their product, and help them stand out.

Slack: From “Tiny Speck” to a Billion-Dollar Brand

Slack didn’t start with its famous name. The company was first called Tiny Speck, a weird, forgettable name for a workplace chat tool. The founder, Stewart Butterfield, later admitted it was a bad choice. So why did they change it?

The new name, Slack, comes from the phrase “Searchable Log of All Conversation and Knowledge.” The letters S-L-A-C-K are hidden inside. But the real genius? The word itself. “Slack” means relaxed, easygoing—exactly how work should feel. It’s short, easy to spell, and works in many languages. Today, Slack is worth billions, and no one remembers Tiny Speck.

Key takeaway:

A name should feel like your product, not just describe it.
Short and simple beats clever but confusing.
Don’t be afraid to change if the first name doesn’t work.

Zoom: Why a Generic Word Worked for a Tech Giant

“Zoom” is one of the most common words in English. So why did it work for a video call company? Because it’s perfect for what the product does—making meetings feel closer, faster, and more personal.

Before Zoom, people used clunky names like WebEx or GoToMeeting. These names told you what the product was but didn’t make you feel anything. “Zoom” does both. It’s:

Easy to remember – Even grandmas can say it.
Universal – Works in almost every language.
Action-oriented – The word itself suggests speed and movement.

The lesson? A name doesn’t need to be unique to be powerful. Sometimes, the simplest word is the best—if it fits your brand.

Notion: A Name That Matches Its Flexibility

Notion is a tool for notes, databases, and project management—basically, a digital workspace that can do everything. So why name it Notion?

The word means “an idea or belief about something.” It’s vague, but that’s the point. Notion isn’t just one thing—it’s whatever you need it to be. The name:

Feels smart but not pretentious – Like a notebook for geniuses (but easy to use).
Works for any use case – Whether you’re a student, a CEO, or a chef.
Sounds modern – Not like old-school software with names like OfficeSuite Pro 2024.

Pro tip: If your product does many things, pick a name that’s open-ended. Avoid words that box you in.

Stripe: Standing Out in a Crowded Fintech World

Fintech names are usually boring—think PayPal, Square, or Intuit. So when Stripe launched, it felt fresh. Why?

It’s unexpected – No one associates “stripe” with payments (unless you’re a zebra).
It’s visual – The word makes you think of lines, patterns, and movement—just like money flowing.
It’s short and strong – Easy to say, easy to remember.

The founders, John and Patrick Collison, wanted a name that felt different from banks. They succeeded. Today, Stripe is worth over $50 billion, and no one confuses it with PayPal.

Lesson: In a crowded industry, a surprising name can help you stand out.

Duolingo: Playful but Professional

Edtech is a tricky space. You need a name that’s fun enough for kids but serious enough for adults. Duolingo nailed it.

The name comes from duo (two) + lingo (language). It’s:

Easy to pronounce – Works in English, Spanish, and many other languages.
Friendly and approachable – Not stuffy like Rosetta Stone.
Memorable – The green owl mascot (Duo) makes it even stickier.

But here’s the secret: Duolingo could have been boring. They could’ve named it LanguageMaster or SpeakEasy. Instead, they picked something fun—and it paid off. Today, millions use Duolingo to learn languages, and the name feels like a friend, not a textbook.

What Can You Learn From These Startups?

These five companies prove that a great name isn’t about being the cleverest—it’s about being the most effective. Here’s what they all have in common:

✅ Short and simple – No one remembers a 10-letter name. ✅ Easy to spell – If people can’t type it, they can’t find you. ✅ Fits the brand’s vibe – Slack = relaxed, Stripe = bold, Notion = flexible. ✅ Works globally – Avoid words that don’t translate well. ✅ Available as a domain – Check .com before falling in love with a name.

Final thought: Your startup name is your first impression. Make it count. Would you rather explain a confusing name forever—or let the name do the talking for you?

Conclusion: Your Step-by-Step Naming Checklist

You’ve got 20 fresh prompts to play with—now what? Naming your startup isn’t just about creativity. It’s about making smart choices that set you up for success. Let’s break it down into simple steps so you don’t miss anything important.

Quick Recap: Your Naming Toolkit

Here’s a quick reference table to keep your brainstorming on track. Pick a prompt, mix and match, and see what sticks:

Prompt Type	Example	Best For
Tech-inspired	-ly, -ify, -io	SaaS, apps, digital tools
Nature-inspired	-leaf, -bloom, -nest	Eco-friendly, wellness brands
Short & punchy	One-syllable names	Memorable, modern brands
Mashups	Word + word	Unique, brandable names
Playful prefixes	Un-, Re-, Pre-	Disruptive, bold startups

Don’t overthink it at this stage. Write down every idea—even the silly ones. Sometimes the best names come from unexpected places.

The Final Validation Checklist

Before you fall in love with a name, run it through these checks. A great name is useless if someone else already owns it or if it’s impossible to spell.

✅ Domain availability – Use Namecheap or GoDaddy to search for yourname.com. If it’s taken, can you tweak it (e.g., getyourname.com)? ✅ Trademark search – Check the USPTO database (or your country’s equivalent) to avoid legal trouble later. ✅ Social media handles – Is the name available on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn? Tools like Namechk can help. ✅ Linguistic check – Say it out loud. Does it sound weird? Does it mean something offensive in another language? (Google Translate is your friend.) ✅ Audience test – Ask 5-10 people what they think. If they’re confused or unimpressed, keep brainstorming.

If your name passes all these, you’re golden. If not, don’t force it. The right name will feel obvious when you find it.

Next Steps: From Name to Brand

You’ve got the name—now make it official. Here’s what to do next:

Register your business – File for an LLC or corporation (use LegalZoom or a local lawyer).
Buy the domain – Even if you’re not ready to build a website, secure it now before someone else does.
Lock down social media – Grab the handles on all platforms, even if you don’t plan to use them yet.
Design a logo – Use Canva or hire a designer on Fiverr to create something simple and professional.
Start using it – Put it on your email signature, business cards, and social profiles. The more you use it, the more real it feels.

Your Name, Your Story

A name is just the beginning. What matters is how you bring it to life. Think about how you’ll talk about your brand, what colors and fonts you’ll use, and what emotions you want people to feel when they hear it.

Some of the best startup names started as inside jokes or random ideas. Slack? It’s short for “Searchable Log of All Conversation and Knowledge.” Notion? It’s simple, clean, and open to interpretation. Your name doesn’t have to explain everything—it just has to feel right.

So, what’s your next move? Will you go back to the prompts and try again? Or are you ready to register that perfect name? Either way, don’t rush. The right name will stick with you for years—make sure it’s one you’re proud of.

Got a name you love? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear what you came up with! And if you’re still stuck, bookmark this guide and come back to it later. Sometimes the best ideas need time to marinate.

** Why a Great Startup Name Matters**