Ever wonder where your favorite Nintendo characters got their names?
The origins of these names are as rich and varied as the adventures they take us on.
From the iconic mustache of Mario, who began life as "Jumpman," to the dynamic spark of Pikachu, whose name is drawn from Japanese onomatopoeia, each moniker carries a unique story.
In this deep dive into the etymology of 21 Nintendo character names, we’ll uncover the fascinating tidbits that shaped these beloved characters, providing a new layer of appreciation for the names you've come to cherish.
Curious to find out who was named after a real-life landlord? Read on!
The Etymology of Mario
Mario was originally named Jumpman. When the character first appeared in the arcade game Donkey Kong in 1981, he was simply known as Jumpman. This name was descriptive of his primary action in the game—jumping over obstacles and climbing ladders to rescue a damsel in distress. The straightforwardness of the name "Jumpman" fit the simplistic nature of early arcade games, focusing on the character's main skill rather than providing a deeper persona.
The renaming process involved a real-life landlord. The transition from Jumpman to Mario occurred when Minoru Arakawa, the head of Nintendo of America, was confronted by their warehouse landlord, Mario Segale, over overdue rent. Inspired by this encounter, Nintendo decided to rename Jumpman to Mario. The name change was intended to provide the character with a more identifiable and relatable persona. By giving him a common name, Nintendo aimed to create a stronger connection with the audience, making the character feel more human and less like a generic action figure.
Mario's name has achieved iconic status in popular culture. Since his renaming, Mario has become one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in video game history. His name is synonymous with the Super Mario franchise, which has sold hundreds of millions of copies worldwide. Mario's relatable name has helped cement his status as a cultural icon, transcending the gaming world to become a symbol of fun and adventure for people of all ages.
The Etymology of Luigi
Luigi's name was inspired by a local pizzeria. Near Nintendo of America's office, there was a pizzeria called “Mario & Luigi.” This serendipitous discovery led to the decision to name Mario’s brother Luigi. The name choice was convenient, as it maintained the Italian theme and complemented Mario perfectly. The pizzeria's name provided an existing cultural reference that made Luigi’s character immediately familiar and relatable to players.
The name Luigi also serves as a pun. In Italian, the word "Luigi" sounds similar to the word for "similar" (simile), which is fitting given Luigi's role as Mario’s twin brother. This pun underscores their close relationship and highlights Luigi as a believable sibling and partner in the games. The clever naming not only added depth to Luigi's character but also reinforced the idea of Mario and Luigi as a dynamic duo, essential to the game's cooperative gameplay.
The Etymology of Donkey Kong
The "Kong" in Donkey Kong's name alludes to King Kong. When Nintendo created the character, they wanted to evoke the image of a large, powerful ape akin to the iconic movie monster, King Kong. The similarities in character and actions—such as climbing structures and carrying off damsels—were intentional nods to the famous gorilla. This reference helped players immediately understand the character's nature and role within the game, leveraging the cultural weight of King Kong to add depth to the new arcade star.
The "Donkey" signifies the character being silly and not as large as King Kong. The choice of "Donkey" might seem odd at first, but it was deliberately picked to convey a sense of stubbornness and comical foolishness. Nintendo wanted to differentiate their character from the terrifying might of King Kong, giving him a more approachable and humorous persona. By combining "Donkey" with "Kong," they created a name that was both memorable and descriptive, encapsulating the character's playful yet obstinate nature.
Nintendo was sued for copyright infringement over the name in 1984. Universal City Studios, the owners of King Kong, filed a lawsuit against Nintendo, claiming that Donkey Kong infringed on their trademark. However, Nintendo emerged victorious in the legal battle. The court ruled that King Kong had become part of the public domain, and therefore, Universal had no exclusive rights to the name. This victory not only solidified Donkey Kong's place in gaming history but also set a precedent for future intellectual property disputes in the video game industry.
The Etymology of Bowser
Bowser's name inspiration comes from a large military vehicle. The name "Bowser" was derived from a type of military vehicle designed to store and transport large quantities of water or fuel. This connection to a robust and utilitarian machine was chosen to evoke a sense of strength and durability, qualities befitting the primary antagonist in the Mario series. The imagery of a massive, powerful vehicle aligns with Bowser's role as a formidable and relentless foe, enhancing his imposing presence in the games.
The connection to the CEO of Nintendo of America is purely coincidental. Despite sharing the same name, there is no intentional link between Bowser and Doug Bowser, the CEO of Nintendo of America. This coincidence has often amused fans, but it holds no significance in the character's naming process. Bowser's name was specifically selected to create an antagonist that exudes power and menace. As the main villain in the Mario franchise, Bowser's name and character design work together to establish him as a fearsome and memorable adversary, reinforcing his status as one of the most iconic villains in video game history.
The Etymology of Princess Peach
Originally named Princess Toadstool. When Princess Peach first appeared in the Super Mario series, she was known as Princess Toadstool. This name was descriptive of her role as the ruler of the Mushroom Kingdom, aligning with the game's whimsical and mushroom-centric theme. The name "Toadstool" fit perfectly in the context of the early games, enhancing the fantasy setting and making her character easily identifiable within the Mushroom Kingdom's lore.
The name change to Peach occurred in 1993 to give her a more approachable persona. The transition from Princess Toadstool to Princess Peach was officially revealed in the 1993 game Super Mario 64. The Japanese name "Peach" was chosen to make the character more relatable and friendly. This change was part of a broader strategy to give the character a softer, more appealing image. The name "Peach" evokes a sense of sweetness and approachability, which helped in making the princess a beloved figure among fans. This renaming also unified her character's identity across different regions, strengthening her recognition and appeal globally.
The Etymology of Link
Link’s name was chosen to symbolize a “link” between the past and future. The creators of The Legend of Zelda series wanted a name that would encapsulate the character's essential function in the game. Link's adventures often involve traveling through different eras, solving puzzles, and overcoming challenges that span across time. This time-traveling aspect made the name "Link" particularly fitting, as it highlights his role in connecting various timelines and histories within the game's universe.
The name underscores Link’s role as a unifier and connector. Throughout the The Legend of Zelda series, Link is not just a hero but a crucial figure who brings together disparate elements, people, and worlds. Whether it's uniting the different races of Hyrule or restoring balance between light and dark realms, Link's actions consistently emphasize his role as a bridge-builder. His name thus serves as a constant reminder of his mission to unify and connect, making it deeply relevant to the themes of the game.
The Etymology of Zelda
Inspired by American novelist Zelda Fitzgerald. The name Zelda was chosen by Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of The Legend of Zelda series, who admired Zelda Fitzgerald. She was a renowned American novelist and socialite, known for her beauty and vibrant personality. Miyamoto considered her a famous and beautiful woman, making her name an ideal choice for the princess character in his game.
The name was chosen to evoke elegance and timelessness. By naming the character Zelda, Miyamoto aimed to give her an aura of sophistication and enduring appeal. The name has an elegant sound that fits the princess’s royal status and timeless role within the series. This choice adds depth to the character, making her not just a damsel in distress but a figure of grace and significance in the gaming world.
The Etymology of Samus Aran
Samus Aran was named after Iranian-American athlete Edson Arantes “Pelé” do Nascimento. The creators of the Metroid series sought inspiration from a globally recognized figure known for exceptional athletic prowess. Pelé, as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, embodied the qualities of strength, agility, and resilience. By choosing a name inspired by Pelé, the developers aimed to imbue Samus Aran with a sense of athleticism and capability, reinforcing her role as a formidable bounty hunter in the game.
The name was designed to sound futuristic and unique. In addition to its athletic inspiration, the name "Samus Aran" was crafted to evoke a sense of the future and uniqueness. The developers wanted a name that would stand out in the science fiction genre and reflect the advanced, high-tech world Samus inhabits. The combination of "Samus" and "Aran" creates a distinctive, memorable name that aligns with her strong, athletic character. This name not only highlights her physical abilities but also her role as a trailblazing female protagonist in the gaming industry.
The Etymology of Pikachu
Named from two Japanese onomatopoeia, “Pika” (sparkle/flash) and “Chu” (mouse’s squeak). Pikachu’s name brilliantly combines these two elements to capture the essence of its character. “Pika” reflects the electric type's ability to generate sparks and flashes of electricity, while “Chu” mimics the sound a mouse makes, tying into Pikachu's rodent-like appearance. This clever use of onomatopoeia ensures that the name is both descriptive and memorable, immediately conveying Pikachu's key characteristics to players and fans.
The name was chosen to be catchy and representative of the character’s electric abilities. Pikachu’s name is designed to be easily recognizable and evocative of its playful and energetic nature. The combination of “Pika” and “Chu” not only sounds appealing but also effectively communicates the character’s traits. Pikachu is known for its cheerful personality and dynamic electric attacks, and its name perfectly encapsulates these attributes. This thoughtful naming strategy has contributed to Pikachu's status as one of the most beloved and iconic characters in the Pokémon franchise.
The Etymology of Kirby
Kirby was initially named “Popopo” during development. When Nintendo was first creating the character, the development team referred to him as “Popopo.” This name was simple and playful, fitting the character’s cute and round design. However, as the game progressed toward completion, the team decided that a more memorable and impactful name was needed to better align with the character's eventual iconic status.
The renaming process involved a tribute to American lawyer John Kirby, who defended Nintendo in a lawsuit. In the early 1980s, Nintendo faced a legal battle over the game Donkey Kong. John Kirby successfully defended Nintendo, ensuring the company could continue to use the name without issue. To honor his significant contribution, Nintendo renamed “Popopo” to “Kirby.” This was not only a tribute but also a strategic move to give the character a name that was unique and easily recognizable. Interestingly, the name Kirby also coincidentally matches that of a well-known vacuum cleaner manufacturer, adding an unintentional layer of humor given Kirby’s ability to inhale enemies. This serendipitous connection further solidified Kirby's name in the minds of fans, making it both memorable and endearing.
The Etymology of Yoshi
Yoshi is a common Japanese name meaning “righteous.” The creators of the character chose this name to reflect Yoshi’s inherent qualities of goodness and virtue. By selecting a name with such a positive connotation, they aimed to encapsulate the character’s helpful and heroic nature. This choice not only gives Yoshi a strong cultural identity but also aligns perfectly with his role within the Mario universe.
Yoshi’s name emphasizes his role as a loyal companion in the games. Throughout the Super Mario series, Yoshi is depicted as a steadfast ally to Mario, often aiding him in his quests and adventures. The name "Yoshi" reinforces this image, highlighting his righteousness and loyalty. His consistent portrayal as a dependable friend and hero underscores the significance of his name, making it an integral part of his character’s identity.
The Etymology of Captain Olimar
Olimar’s Japanese name, Orima, is Mario written backwards in the kana writing system. This clever naming choice highlights Nintendo's tradition of embedding playful elements into their characters. The developers of Pikmin wanted to create a character that had a subtle connection to the iconic Mario, and reversing the name in Japanese provided a unique and intriguing solution. This backward spelling adds an extra layer of fun for fans who discover the hidden reference.
The name was chosen as a playful nod to the Mario series, reflecting Captain Olimar’s adventurous and exploratory nature. By linking Olimar to Mario, Nintendo not only pays homage to their most famous character but also sets the tone for Olimar's persona. As a space explorer navigating unknown worlds, Olimar embodies the spirit of adventure and curiosity that Mario also represents. This thoughtful naming strategy enriches the character’s background and offers fans a delightful Easter egg, enhancing their connection to the broader Nintendo universe.
The Etymology of Charizard
Charizard’s name is a portmanteau of the words charcoal and lizard. This clever combination was designed to encapsulate the essence of the character. "Char" refers to burning or scorching, which aligns with Charizard's fire-breathing abilities, while "lizard" directly points to its reptilian form. The portmanteau effectively conveys both its elemental power and its physical appearance, making the name instantly descriptive and memorable.
Originally named Lizardon in Japanese, the name was chosen to reflect Charizard’s fiery and reptilian characteristics. The Japanese name "Lizardon" combines "lizard" with a suffix that implies a grand or powerful creature, further emphasizing its formidable nature. The transition to "Charizard" for English-speaking audiences retained these core traits while adding a layer of elemental specificity. This thoughtful naming not only highlights Charizard's dual nature as a fire-breathing dragon and a lizard but also ensures the character’s name is universally recognizable and evocative of its key attributes.
The Etymology of Fox McCloud
McCloud is a reference to Connor MacLeod from the Highlander series. The creators of the Star Fox series sought a name that would evoke a sense of heroism and adventure. By referencing Connor MacLeod, the immortal protagonist of the Highlander series, they aimed to imbue Fox McCloud with a similar aura of bravery and resilience. This connection to a well-known character added an extra layer of depth and familiarity, making Fox McCloud’s name resonate with fans who were already familiar with the Highlander series.
The name was chosen to give a “spacey” spelling and feel. In addition to the heroic reference, the creators wanted Fox McCloud’s name to reflect his role as a space-faring hero. The choice of "McCloud" not only pays homage to Highlander but also conjures images of the vast, open skies and the limitless possibilities of space. The "Fox" part of his name adds a touch of agility and cunning, traits that are essential for a pilot navigating dangerous interstellar missions. Together, "Fox McCloud" encapsulates the essence of a daring and skilled space adventurer, perfectly aligning with his character’s role in the Star Fox series.
The Etymology of Ganon
Ganon's name was initially spelled Gannond in the first few Zelda games. This early spelling variation appeared in the original The Legend of Zelda games, reflecting the evolving nature of character naming conventions as the series developed. The adjustment to "Ganon" streamlined the name, making it more concise and impactful. This change was part of a broader effort to refine the character’s identity and ensure that his name resonated with players as a symbol of formidable evil.
The name Ganon is possibly derived from an Irish name meaning “fair-skinned.” Despite Ganon’s dark and menacing persona, his name could trace back to the Irish name "Gannon," which means "fair-skinned." This contrast adds an intriguing layer to the character, juxtaposing his sinister role with a name that traditionally conveys a more benign image. The choice of "Ganon" was intended to evoke a sense of ancient power and menace, aligning perfectly with his role as a timeless antagonist in the series. This etymological blend of cultural references and thematic elements helps to establish Ganon as a deeply compelling and enduring villain in the The Legend of Zelda universe.
The Etymology of Koopa Troopa
Koopa comes from the Korean dish gukbap. The name "Koopa" is derived from the Korean dish gukbap, a traditional soup with rice. This unexpected cultural reference adds an interesting layer to the character's background. While the connection between a turtle-like enemy and a Korean dish might seem tenuous, it showcases Nintendo's creative approach to naming characters. By using a term that is both unique and culturally significant, the name "Koopa" becomes memorable and distinctive within the Mario universe.
Troopa comes from a corruption of the word trooper. The second part of the name, "Troopa," is a playful corruption of the word "trooper." This alteration emphasizes the character’s role as a common enemy and foot soldier within the Mario series. Koopa Troopas are often seen marching in formation, much like soldiers, and their name reflects this militaristic behavior. The combination of "Koopa" and "Troopa" effectively conveys their identity as basic yet persistent adversaries, making them an integral part of the game's challenging landscape. This thoughtful naming convention helps establish Koopa Troopas as iconic and recognizable foes in the Mario franchise.
The Etymology of Wario
Wario’s name is a portmanteau of the Japanese word "warui," meaning "bad," and Mario. The creators of Super Mario wanted to introduce a character that would serve as an evil counterpart to Mario. By combining "warui," which translates to "bad" or "evil" in Japanese, with Mario's name, they crafted a moniker that immediately signals Wario’s antagonistic nature. This clever linguistic blend ensures that players can instantly recognize Wario as the mischievous and malevolent foil to the beloved hero.
The name was chosen to establish Wario as a mischievous and greedy character, the opposite of Mario. Wario’s name not only highlights his evil traits but also underscores his role in the Mario universe. Unlike Mario, who is known for his bravery and altruism, Wario is characterized by his greed and cunning. His name reflects these personality traits, making it clear that he is driven by self-interest and a desire for wealth. This stark contrast between the two characters adds depth to their rivalry and enriches the narrative of the Super Mario series.
The Etymology of Waluigi
Waluigi's name is modeled after the evil side character Wario. Just as Wario serves as an antagonist to Mario, Waluigi was created to be Luigi's counterpart. The name "Waluigi" cleverly combines elements from Wario's name and the Japanese word "warui," which means "bad" or "evil." This linguistic play ensures that the character's malevolent nature is immediately apparent. By aligning Waluigi's name with Wario's, Nintendo effectively establishes a clear and consistent theme of villainy within the Mario universe.
The name Waluigi reflects his role as an antagonist to Luigi. The prefix "Wa" not only denotes evil but also serves to invert Luigi's character traits, much like Wario does for Mario. This inversion highlights Waluigi's mischievous and antagonistic personality, positioning him as the perfect foil to Luigi's generally kind and heroic demeanor. The thoughtful naming convention reinforces the narrative tension between the characters, making Waluigi a memorable and integral part of the Mario series.
The Etymology of Goomba
Goomba's name has controversial origins. Initially, the term "Goomba" is a racial slur for Italians, which makes its selection as a character name somewhat contentious. However, Nintendo likely did not intend to cause offense. Instead, they focused on other meanings and associations that would be more relevant to the character's design and role within the game. Another layer to the name's origin is its similarity to the Hungarian term "gom bo," which means "mushroom." This connection is far more fitting given Goomba's mushroom-like appearance in the Super Mario series. The dual origins of the name—one controversial and one appropriate—highlight the complexities and unintended consequences that can arise in character naming.
The name Goomba was chosen to reflect the character’s mushroom-like appearance. In the context of the Super Mario series, Goombas are small, mushroom-shaped enemies that players frequently encounter. Their design is simple yet iconic, making them easily recognizable foes within the game. The choice of the name "Goomba" aligns with their visual characteristics, effectively conveying their role as basic adversaries in the Mushroom Kingdom. Despite its controversial roots, the name has become an integral part of the Mario universe, contributing to the rich tapestry of characters that populate the series. This naming decision underscores the importance of considering both visual and cultural elements when creating enduring and memorable characters.
The Etymology of Lucario
Lucario was created to appeal to both Japanese and American audiences. The developers of Pokémon aimed to craft a name that would resonate across different cultures. By selecting a name that sounds unique and heroic, they ensured that Lucario would have a broad appeal. The name is not tied to any specific language, making it universally recognizable and easy to pronounce for players worldwide. This strategic choice helped Lucario quickly become a fan favorite in the Pokémon series.
Lucario’s name reflects his role as a strong and noble character. The name was designed to evoke a sense of strength and nobility, aligning perfectly with Lucario's characteristics in the game. As a Pokémon known for its fighting and steel type abilities, Lucario embodies both physical power and moral integrity. The name itself contributes to this perception, reinforcing Lucario's status as a heroic figure within the Pokémon universe. This thoughtful naming ensures that the character's essence is immediately understood and appreciated by players.
The Etymology of Squirtle
Squirtle’s name is a portmanteau of the words squirt and turtle. This clever combination was designed to encapsulate the essence of the character. "Squirt" refers to its water-squirting abilities, highlighting its status as a Water-type Pokémon. "Turtle" directly points to its turtle-like appearance, making the name both descriptive and memorable. This blend of terms ensures that players can immediately grasp the character’s key traits, enhancing their connection to Squirtle from the moment they hear its name.
The name was chosen to reflect Squirtle’s playful and aquatic nature. Squirtle’s name emphasizes its cheerful and energetic personality, which is a hallmark of its character in the Pokémon series. The playful connotation of "squirt" aligns perfectly with Squirtle's mischievous and fun-loving demeanor, while "turtle" grounds the character in its physical form. This thoughtful naming strategy not only captures Squirtle's abilities and appearance but also its role as a beloved and endearing Pokémon. The name Squirtle effectively communicates its dual nature, making it a standout character in the Nintendo universe.
Final Words
Delving into the etymology of 21 Nintendo character names unveils rich stories behind each iconic figure.
We explored how Mario transformed from Jumpman, how Luigi’s name came from a pizzeria, and how Donkey Kong’s name sparked legal debates.
Characters like Link and Zelda received names that resonate with their in-game roles and themes.
Final thoughts? The names are meticulously crafted, reflecting cultural references, puns, and character traits.
Understanding The Etymology of 21 Nintendo Character Names deepens appreciation for these beloved icons.
The creativity behind their names is a testament to Nintendo’s storytelling prowess.
