100+
Names generated per minute
6
Proven techniques
500+
Domain extensions
90%
Success rate finding available names
6 Proven Name Generation Techniques
Merge 2-3 relevant keywords to create compound names
Examples:
- Photo + Blog = PhotoBlog
- Green + Tech = GreenTech
- Fast + Delivery = FastDelivery
Blend parts of words to create unique combinations
Examples:
- Email + Marketing = Emaileting
- Web + Analytics = Webalytics
- Shop + Fantastic = Shoptastic
Use verbs that convey what your business does
Examples:
- Get + Domain = GetDomain
- Build + Fast = BuildFast
- Send + Easy = SendEasy
Combine location with what you offer
Examples:
- London + Cars = LondonCars
- UK + Hosting = UKHosting
- Essex + Plumbing = EssexPlumbing
Create invented words that sound professional
Examples:
- Spotify
- Zendesk
- Figma
- Shopify
- Mailchimp
Use words that metaphorically represent your business
Examples:
- Apple (simple/clean)
- Amazon (vast)
- Buffer (smoothing)
- Nest (home/safety)
Step-by-Step Generation Strategy
Define what your business does before generating names
- Write down 3-5 words describing your business
- Note your target audience and industry
- List emotions you want to convey
- Consider your growth plans and expansion
Generate many options before narrowing down
- Aim for 50-100 initial ideas
- Use multiple generation techniques
- Don't judge ideas too early
- Include variations and misspellings
Evaluate names against key criteria
- Check pronunciation with others
- Test memorability after 24 hours
- Search for existing businesses
- Consider international implications
Creative Naming Techniques
Words from other languages can sound exotic and professional
Examples:
Uber (German: above)
Adobe (Spanish: mud brick)
Volvo (Latin: I roll)
Modify existing words with common business prefixes or suffixes
Examples:
Pro-, Ultra-, Super-
-ly, -ify, -wise
-hub, -box, -lab
Creative spelling can make common words available and memorable
Examples:
Flickr (Flicker)
Tumblr (Tumbler)
Scribd (Scribe)
Words starting with the same letter are more memorable
Examples:
PayPal
Coca-Cola
Best Buy
Dunkin' Donuts
Turn phrases into memorable acronyms
Examples:
BMW (Bavarian Motor Works)
IBM (International Business Machines)
Include words that evoke positive emotions
Examples:
Joy, Love, Peace, Wonder
Smart, Fresh, Bright, Pure
Fast, Easy, Simple, Quick
Best Domain Name Generation Tools
AI-Powered
Best for: Comprehensive domain search
Features:
- 500+ extensions
- Instant availability
- SEO scoring
- Trademark checking
Keyword-based
Best for: Simple keyword combinations
Features:
- Quick combinations
- Twitter handle check
- Fast results
- Clean interface
Category-based
Best for: Categorized suggestions
Features:
- Multiple categories
- SEO suggestions
- Fun names
- Similar domains
Advanced filtering
Best for: Professional naming projects
Features:
- Multiple keywords
- Advanced filters
- Bulk checking
- Export results
Common Domain Generation Mistakes
Relying only on one technique
Why it's problematic and how it limits your options
Solution:
Use multiple generation methods for diverse options
Not checking trademark conflicts
Why it's problematic and how it limits your options
Solution:
Search trademark databases before finalizing names
Ignoring domain availability
Why it's problematic and how it limits your options
Solution:
Check .com and .co.uk availability early in the process
Making names too clever
Why it's problematic and how it limits your options
Solution:
Ensure names are still clear and professional
Not considering growth
Why it's problematic and how it limits your options
Solution:
Avoid names that limit future business expansion
Skipping social media checks
Why it's problematic and how it limits your options
Solution:
Verify username availability on major platforms
Practice Exercise
Your Challenge:
Pick a business type (e.g., photography, consulting, e-commerce) and generate 10 different domain names using the techniques above.
Techniques to Use:
- Keyword combination (2 names)
- Word blending (2 names)
- Action words (2 names)
- Abstract/brandable (2 names)
- Metaphors (2 names)
Evaluation Criteria:
- Under 15 characters
- Easy to pronounce
- Memorable
- Professional
- Available (.com/.co.uk)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many domain name ideas should I generate?
Generate 50-100 initial ideas, then narrow down to 10-20 favorites. This gives you enough options to find available domains while maintaining quality standards.
Should I prioritize creativity or clarity?
Balance both. Your domain should be creative enough to be memorable and unique, but clear enough that people understand your business. When in doubt, lean toward clarity for better user experience.
What if all the good .com domains are taken?
Try .co.uk for UK businesses, .io for tech companies, or other relevant extensions. Many successful businesses use alternative extensions. Focus on a great name rather than just getting .com.
How do I know if a generated name is trademark-safe?
Search the UK IPO and USPTO trademark databases. Also Google your potential name to see existing usage. For valuable domains, consider professional trademark searching services.
Can AI domain generators replace human creativity?
AI generators are excellent starting points and can suggest combinations you might miss. However, human creativity is still essential for evaluating names, understanding context, and ensuring brand fit.
How important is it to get social media handles?
Very important for brand consistency. Check Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn availability. If exact matches aren't available, consistent variations (add "official" or location) work too.