Can AI Help You Generate Your Next Big Brand Name?
You are trying to name the incredible new water socks you have invented. Time is ticking away, your notebook is full of crossed out ideas you have dismissed. You’re wondering if “SuperSocks” is really that bad.
Then you remember everyone’s talking about using AI for, well, everything. But can AI actually help you create a killer brand name? We decided to find out.
We threw down the gauntlet to ChatGPT, challenging it to help name everything from waterproof socks to a business app. What we discovered might surprise you (and save you many hours of brainstorming).
What AI Gets Right, Surprisingly
We asked ChatGPT to name waterproof socks. Within seconds, it spat out 20+ names that weren’t half bad. Think “AquaStep” and “StormSox” – not revolutionary, but usable.
Sure! Here are some name ideas for your waterproof sock:
These names aim to emphasize the waterproof and protective qualities of your socks. Let me know if you’d like more or if you’d like to narrow down the options!
- DryStride
- WaterGuard
- SockShield
- AquaStep
- DryTread
- StormSo
- FloodFree
- RainGuard
- TideLock
- SoggyNoMore
- HydroSock
- SplashSafe
- StreamShield
- AquaBlock
- WetNoMore
- DryFeet
- RainRepel
- SockGuard
- AquaTread
- HydraSox
The Plot Thickens: Testing AI’s Creative Limits
We decided to push harder. “Give me something more creative. Something abstract, evocative, memorable!” Got it! Here are some more creative and evocative names for your waterproof sock brand:
Got it! Here are some more creative and evocative names for your waterproof sock brand:
- Aquilo
- TideWeave
- NimbusKnit
- VaporTread
- HydraWoven
- DriftSox
- Mistura
- Soluna
- Searis
- WetNest
- AquaVibe
- LunaSox
- Hydrosphere
- TempestStep
- FrostFlow
- Elementa
- Zephyra
- Clyra
- OddysseySock
- FlowSage
These names are designed to evoke a sense of movement, nature, and protection, with an abstract touch for a more unique and memorable brand identity. Let me know if any resonate with your vision!
Next we decided to try a naming scenario in which we gave ChatGPT more information:
I need to name a new software app that organizes and manages distribution channels for ecommerce businesses. Names need to appeal to c-suite executive and business owners and be flexible enough to expand to other services in the future. The new name should feel serious, distinguished and trustworthy.
Here are some name ideas for your software app that conveys seriousness, trustworthiness, and flexibility for future expansion:
- DistributeX – A clean, modern name that emphasizes distribution with the “X” suggesting flexibility and scalability for future services
- ChannelCrest – “Crest” conveys a sense of leadership and reaching the peak, which speaks to excellence in managing distribution channels
- Stratify – A name that suggests strategy and organization, ideal for a tool that helps businesses manage and streamline distribution
- Nexora – A name that evokes a sense of the “next” generation of distribution solutions with a futuristic yet professional feel
- Vanguardis – “Vanguard” suggests leadership, innovation, and staying ahead of the competition, a great fit for a distinguished and trustworthy brand
- ChannelSync – A name that implies smooth synchronization and integration of distribution channels for ecommerce, with a straightforward and professional tone
- DistribuCore – “Core” suggests something central, foundational, and indispensable, which speaks to the app’s role in organizing and managing distribution channels
- Fluxion – A sophisticated name with roots in “flux,” suggesting adaptability and the constant change in ecommerce and distribution—flexible for future growth
- CirrusOne – “Cirrus” evokes clouds and clarity, a metaphor for a cloud-based platform that brings clear, organized solutions to ecommerce distribution
- OptimaLink – “Optima” denotes optimization and excellence, while “Link” implies connections and integration, fitting for a distribution management too
- Transitus – Derived from “transit” (movement or transition), suggesting smooth operations and transitions in managing channels
- CohesionPro – “Cohesion” speaks to the idea of bringing multiple parts together seamlessly, which is key to managing distribution channels
These names are designed to appeal to high-level executives by conveying professionalism, trustworthiness, and scalability for future services. Let me know if any stand out or if you want more tailored suggestions!
ChatGPT rose to the challenge, but we noticed some interesting patterns:
What We Discovered:
- AI leans into mashups (sometimes a little too much)
- It kind of likes -ra and-is suffixes when making up words
- But man, is it fast at brainstorming!
The Reality Check: Where AI Hits a Wall
Here’s what no one tells you about using AI for naming: it’s like having an enthusiastic intern who’s great at research but can’t legally sign any documents. Here’s why:
1. The Legal Labyrinth
Try asking ChatGPT about trademark availability. “Can you tell me if Fluxion would be available to trademark in the US at the federal level?”
To determine whether the name Fluxion is available for federal trademark registration in the U.S., you’d need to conduct a comprehensive trademark search…
Then it gives you steps to follow for a DIY trademark search. To do this yourself, you need some knowledge of trademark law and how to interpret your findings. This can be tricky.
2. The Domain Name Drama
“Is fluxion.com available as a domain name?”
The domain “fluxion.com” is already taken, according to domain availability checkers. You might want to consider alternative domain extensions or slightly different names to find an available option for your site. You can explore more options with the available domain search tools or try different variations. Let me know if you’d like help with other suggestions!
Well… not exactly. It’s parked and you may be able to buy it.
3. The Market Testing Mystery
While AI can’t test names with real humans, it tries to generalize:
“Can you tell me what millennials will think about the name Fluxion?”
To understand what Millennials might think about the name “Fluxion,” several factors must be considered:
Key Characteristics of Millennials:
- Digital and modern orientation: They often favor names that sound sleek, tech-savvy, or futuristic.
- Brand authenticity: They value names that reflect trustworthiness and innovation.
- Memorability: Abstract but evocative names resonate if they are easy to recall and connect emotionally.
Perception of “Fluxion”
Positive Associations:
- “Fluxion” suggests motion, change, and adaptability—qualities that align with tech-forward and dynamic brands.
- Its scientific roots (from “flux”) might resonate with Millennials’ appreciation for intelligence and innovation.
- The modern, single-word structure fits a pattern common among successful startups and tech brands.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Some may find it too abstract without context or branding to support it.
- The name could feel niche or overly technical if the broader audience lacks familiarity with its deeper meaning.
Surveying Millennials Directly:
- To validate the name’s appeal, conduct polls on social media platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn using clear framing: e.g., “What feelings or thoughts does the word ‘Fluxion’ evoke for you?”
- Use tools like Pollfish or Google Surveys to target Millennials and include questions about how “Fluxion” compares to alternative names, its perceived tone, and its memorability.
ChatGPT seems to be pontificating. Surveying Millennials Directly is really the way to go.
4. The Global Naming Game
Ask AI about international naming considerations, and you’ll get some surprisingly thoughtful insights – but don’t bet your global launch on them. It’s like having a friend who’s watched a lot of travel shows but never left their hometown.
The name “Fluxion” has a generally neutral to positive connotation globally, as it evokes ideas of fluidity, change, and motion, which can appeal to audiences in various regions…
To ensure global success, you might want to invest in linguistic and cultural validation services and possibly test the name with focus groups in different countries. These steps can help avoid potential pitfalls and make the brand universally appealing.
Not super-helpful.
The Pros and Cons of AI-Generated Names
What AI Does Reasonably Well:
- Kicks writer’s block to the curb
- Generates ideas faster than your marketing team on espresso
- Never gets tired of your “just one more idea” requests
- Available at 3 AM when inspiration strikes
Where AI Needs Human Help
- Creativity (you have to keep prodding it for more imaginative ideas, it’s just a tool)
- Legal verification (unless you enjoy cease-and-desist letters)
- Cultural nuance (avoid those unfortunate international incidents)
- Market testing (real human responses are needed)
- Domain availability (sorry, but SuperGood.com was taken in 2001)
Your Action Plan: Using AI for Naming Without Losing Your Mind
You Do This
- Write a clear brief (AI loves details)
- Set realistic expectations (it’s a tool, not magic)
- Keep your coffee hot (you’ll still need it)
AI Does This
- Begin with broad brainstorming
- Push for variations
- Keep the good, ditch the bad
- Works as a springboard, not a final answer
You Do This
- Verify everything (seriously, everything)
- Test with real humans
- Check international meanings
- Secure your domains
The Bottom Line
AI is like having a creative assistant who never sleeps and has swallowed a thesaurus – amazing for getting started, but you wouldn’t let it drive your car. Use it to kickstart your naming process, but remember: the best brand names come from a perfect blend of artificial intelligence and human insight.
