How to Name the Sidekick in Your Story

Even while your main character may receive all the attention, it's important to remember that sidekicks frequently steal the show.

They serve as your hero's loyal allies, sometimes their voice of reason, or occasionally the mayhem required to advance in their narrative. And like the main character, their name matters.

Here are some simple ideas to help you choose the perfect name for your sidekick!

1. Make It Work with the Hero’s Name

Consider famous pairs like Sherlock and Watson or Frodo and Sam. Their names simply work together, almost as a unit. There should be a pleasing balance between your sidekick and your main character's name, but this doesn't mean that they need to rhyme or match. Similar length and origin can be a great place to start. Maintaining a cohesion between the two, but perhaps give the sidekick a lighter name if your hero's is more on the serious side.

2. Keep It Friendly

Typically, sidekicks are intended to be more personable. They are the kind of characters that readers can relate to, laugh with, and occasionally even identify with. They feel more grounded when their name is straightforward and simple to say. Short, charming names like Sam or Ron are naturally likeable.

3. Use Contrast for Fun

Leaning into contrasts can sometimes result in the best names. A playful relationship is immediately created if you give the sidekick a name like "Pip" if your hero is "Percival the Great." Their responsibilities are emphasized by contrast, which may easily result in a natural chemistry between them.

4. Match Their Personality

Is your sidekick clever and mischievous? Steady and loyal? Their name needs to reflect who they are. A witty nickname can fit a dynamic disposition, while something classic and solid might work for a best friend who is always there to rely on. Consider their name to be a small preview of their part in the narrative.

5. Keep the World in Mind

Always remember the setting you created. A futuristic robot would not likely have a name that sounds medieval, and a fantasy sidekick usually won't have a name that sounds too modern. Your characters will feel like they belong in their environment if you maintain consistency with it.

6. Don’t Forget Nicknames

Sidekicks are the perfect characters to use nicknames with. They are frequently the ones who know the hero well enough for nicknames to make sense. Furthermore, without a single line of narrative, nicknames can convey humour, attachment, and character backstory.

Conclusion

Our idea is that naming your sidekick is about finding the perfect balance. They shouldn't overshadow your main character, but they shouldn’t fade into the background either. Good things to focus on in to make sure their name should fit the world they live in, but also reflect their personality and blend in well with your hero.

Because at the end of the day, every hero needs a sidekick whose name sticks just as much as their own.