In an age where over 6.9 million businesses are launched each year globally, and more than 370 million domain names are already registered, finding the perfect brand name isn’t just a creative task—it’s a strategic challenge.
So if you’re wondering how to come up with a brand name that’s unique, available, and powerful, this guide breaks it down using proven frameworks, real-world examples, and practical tools.
1. Why the Right Brand Name Matters
A memorable name does more than stick—it sells. According to a Nielsen study, branding accounts for up to 59% of consumers’ purchase decisions. A name like “Uber” or “Airbnb” isn’t just catchy; it signals something different, aspirational, and instantly recognizable.
When Twitter rebranded from “Twttr,” or when Google emerged from the ashes of “Backrub,” it wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about clarity, expansion, and memorability.
Stat to consider: Startups with short, pronounceable, and .com-based names raise 35% more funding on average than those with complex or abstract names, according to a Crunchbase analysis.
2. Identify the Foundation of Your Brand
Before name generation begins, define your:
- Target audience: Who are you speaking to? Age, interests, pain points?
- Core promise or benefit: What value are you offering?
- Tone and personality: Is it playful, serious, luxurious, or disruptive?
Case in point: Slack was named to reflect “Searchable Log of All Conversation and Knowledge”—a name that’s simple, but deeply rooted in its function.
3. Explore Naming Techniques (With Examples)
Here are common naming strategies with famous examples:
a. Compound Words
Combining two real words that create new meaning:
Examples: Facebook, YouTube, Skillshare, QuickBooks
✅ Great for clarity and SEO.
b. Blended or Portmanteau Words
Mixing parts of two words:
Examples: Pinterest (Pin + Interest), Groupon (Group + Coupon), Netflix (Internet + Flicks)
✅ Works well in tech and media.
c. Real Words with a Twist
Using dictionary words in surprising ways:
Examples: Apple, Amazon, Target
✅ Often simple but need strong branding.
d. Invented or Abstract Words
Completely made-up but brandable terms:
Examples: Google, Kodak, Xerox
✅ Strong for uniqueness and trademarkability.
e. Acronyms or Initialisms
Useful for long descriptions:
Examples: IBM, CNN, ASOS
✅ Beware of sounding generic if not done right.
4. Use AI-Powered Naming Tools
You no longer need a whiteboard and weeks of brainstorming. These brand name generators leverage AI and data to spark ideas—and some even offer logo and domain packages.
Recommended Tools:
- Squadhelp – Combines human creativity and AI, used by companies like Nestlé and Dell. You can launch a naming contest or browse thousands of pre-made .com names.
- Namelix – Generates AI-based name ideas based on keywords and style preferences. Includes logo mockups.
- BrandBucket – Curated marketplace of brandable .com domains, with logos included.
- Namecheckr – Verifies domain and social handle availability across platforms instantly.
Data point: According to Squadhelp’s 2024 Annual Naming Trends Report, brandable domains under 9 characters and those ending in “ly” or “io” perform better in tech and SaaS.
5. Test for Availability and Legal Clarity
A good name is worthless if it’s already taken—or worse, trademarked.
- Domain Availability: Use a tool like Namecheap or Name.com to check .com and relevant TLDs.
- Trademark Search: Use USPTO.gov or EUIPO for European trademarks.
- Social Media: Run checks across Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Twitter using Namecheckr.
Example: The name “Tesla” was originally owned by a different company. Elon Musk paid $75,000 to acquire the domain teslamotors.com, and it took over a decade to obtain tesla.com.
6. Validate With Real Users
Before settling on your name, test it:
- Ask people in your niche to pronounce or spell it
- Run small polls on LinkedIn or Instagram
- Create mockups of a logo or product page to see visual impact
Tip: Tools like Looka or Canva’s logo maker can help you visualize your brand name instantly.
Final Word: Don’t Just Name, Brand
The best names come from a mix of instinct, research, and iteration. Take Airbnb—it was originally “AirBed & Breakfast” and evolved into a word synonymous with travel lifestyle. Or Shopify—clear, action-driven, and niche-focused.
If you’re just getting started, using smart tools like Squadhelp, Namelix, or BrandBucket will save you time and increase your chances of discovering a name that sells.
Looking for inspiration or an available .com brand name right now?
Check out Squadhelp’s marketplace or explore curated brand names on BrandBucket today.