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Drow are a unique type of elf in the Dungeons & Dragons world. While their roles and habitats can differ across various D&D settings, they are often seen as the darker counterparts of traditional elves. Drow are commonly associated with evil deities and dark magic, typically residing in the Underdark.
However, players can also choose to play drow characters in the surface world. If you find yourself in need of ideas for a compelling drow name, this guide will provide you with everything you need to create one.
Understanding Drow Names
Drow names closely resemble standard elven naming patterns.
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Childhood Names: Most elves start with a youthful name, which tends to be vowel-heavy and often derived from existing elven or fey terms.
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Gender Neutrality: It is important to note that, in elven culture, including that of the drow, there is generally little distinction between male and female names; many names are suitable for any gender identity.
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Adult Names: Upon reaching maturity, elves select a new name for themselves and adopt their family’s name. These adult names are typically original and unique, not shared among other elves.
- Sound Characteristics: While drow names share the melodic qualities of elven names, they may feature harsher consonants and a sharper rhythm, lending a more sinister air that fits their often dark nature.
Tips and Tricks for Creating Drow Names
When crafting an adult drow name, you will need to think of both a first name and a family name. Here are some useful tips to help you come up with distinctive drow names:
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Add Consonants | Drow names often sound harsher. Try taking an existing elven name and substituting softer consonants for sharper ones. |
| Borrow From Infernal | Draw inspiration from infernal or demonic names, as they often fit well with drow naming styles. A small tweak can make them sound more fey. |
| Combine Elven Words | Drow family names usually consist of two elven words joined together. For instance, "Galanodel" combines the words for "Moon" and "Whisper." You could use an elven translator for inspiration. |
Both the 2014 Player’s Handbook and Xanathar’s Guide to Everything feature lists of sample elven names that can get your creative juices flowing.
Examples of Drow Names
With a strong understanding of naming conventions and tips in mind, here are some sample names for drow elves:
| First Names | Family Names |
|---|---|
| Cazel | Kerynbhin (Male Warrior) |
| Sumnez | Teuvel (Moonblade) |
| Tralar | Runthraen (Land Hunter) |
| Valeie | Raunkerym (Greatsword) |
| Jelenck | Viluthe (Beautiful Wolf) |
| Maizel | Vaelmaer (Bladwings) |
| Delmuth | Shesseshil (Shadow Scepter) |
| Ivran | Ruaraen (Star Hunter) |
| Nyshar | Qu’Quor (Binding Communion) |
| Zulao | Nantataar (Caster of Destiny) |
Feel free to mix and modify these names to suit your character’s personality and background!
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