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Exotic Race Names: Tabaxi, Kenku, and Beyond

Artificer Alex
February 15, 2024
8 min read
Exotic Race Names: Tabaxi, Kenku, and Beyond

Some of D&D's most interesting characters come from its more exotic races. These races have unique naming conventions that can seem challenging at first, but understanding their culture makes naming them a creative joy.

Tabaxi: The Wandering Cat-Folk

Tabaxi names are perhaps the most unique in D&D. They consist of:

  • A descriptive phrase: based on appearance, personality, or a prophetic vision
  • A clan name: derived from natural phenomena

    • Examples:

  • Cloud on the Mountaintop of Distant Rain
  • Five Timber of Falling Star
  • Jade Shoe of Evening Breeze

    • In practice, Tabaxi use shortened versions: "Cloud," "Timber," or "Jade."

    Kenku: Names of Sound

    Kenku can only mimic sounds they've heard, so their names ARE sounds:

  • Clatter, Whisper, Echo
  • Screech, Murmur, Chime
  • Rustle, Snap, Melody

    • A Kenku named "Hammer" was probably raised near a blacksmith. "Cricket" might have grown up in meadows. The name tells you about their history.

    Firbolg: The Nameless Giants

    Firbolgs traditionally don't use names among themselves. When pressed by other races, they might share:

  • A descriptive title: "Keeper of the Grove"
  • A nickname given by others
  • A name they've adopted from another culture

    • This makes Firbolg naming uniquely flexible.

    Kobold: Sharp and Short

    Kobold names are clipped and harsh:

  • Meepo, Kib, Pix
  • Rix, Sniv, Vex
  • Tik, Lurk, Gix

    • Clan names often reference their draconic worship: Dragonscale, Wyrmkin, Firetail.

    Changeling: Many Names

    Changelings might have:

  • A personal name known only to close friends
  • Multiple personas, each with their own name
  • A "true" name they rarely share

    • Lizardfolk: Practical Names

    Lizardfolk view names practically. They might be named for:

  • A physical characteristic: "Scales," "Sharp-tooth"
  • A skill: "Riverhunter," "Bogcaller"
  • A sound in their language: "Arashk," "Sizzik"

    • Tips for Exotic Race Names

  • Understand the culture behind the naming convention
  • Use our specialized generators for each race
  • Consider how the name functions in everyday gameplay
  • Think about how other races would perceive the name
  • Don't be afraid to have fun with unusual conventions

    • Our DnD Name Generator includes all these exotic races with culturally appropriate names ready to use in your next campaign.

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