Pokémon

This is a sub-page of Development:Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire/Localization Glossaries.

This sheet is formatted in "regional" Pokédex order, with name entries for returning Pokémon interspersed with the Hoenn newcomers. Also, for some reason Vigoroth's row in particular is highlighted in a lighter shade of green in the original spreadsheet.

Rejected Names#

Finalized Names#

Name	Explanation
TREECKO	TREE + GECKO = TREECKO[*]. A direct translation of the Japanese name. "Straightforward and easy to understand, namely for children."
GROVYLE	GROVE = small forest, orchard. The change from "tree" to "grove" is fairly nice.
SCEPTILE	SCEPTILE = SCEPTER (royalty) + REPTILE. It's easy to pronounce, and gives the impression of a strong REPTILE. →It's made up of the word "SCEPTER", which expresses the fact it's an evolved form, and "REPTILE" which evokes this Pokémon's appearance, so it's good in terms of meaning as well. As a name, it also has a sense of cohesion (it's easy to say out loud).
TORCHIC	TORCHIC = TORCH + CHICK. Chicken is synonymous with "coward", and does not have a good image. The nickname COCK has a sexual connotation, and is used differently between males and females. CHICK means baby chicken, and also refers to an attractive woman. We tried to use these words correctly.
COMBUSKEN	COMBUSKEN = COMBUSTION + CHICKEN. A word related to fire. Sounds stronger than its pre-evolution. Bird-centric. As to make it look cool, we chose stronger words that wouldn't make it sound weaker than the other two members of its line. *Because the pre-evolved form is "TORCHIC" and its evolution is "BLAZOCK", we wanted to standardize the endings. Yet, we avoided using "-OCK", which can give off a slightly strange impression, and instead used the ending KEN (from CHICKEN). It rhymes. COMBUSKEN = COMBUSTION + CHICKEN.
BLAZIKEN	BLAZIKEN = BLAZE + CHICKEN. Flames are cool, matching the coolness of a rooster. We used BLAZE, then KEN, and added "I" to make it sound cooler. It gives a strong impression of being more powerful. We avoided using "-OCK", which can give off a slightly strange impression, and instead used the ending KEN (from CHICKEN). It rhymes.
MUDKIP	From MUD SKIPPER. A literal translation would be "mud" + "jump". Basically, there's no word that can express it in one word. As such, we used MUD as the base and made the name phonetically reminiscent of MUD SKIPPER. To emphasize that it is a mudskipper. Easy to understand. The short spelling, the way the name sounds, and its appearance are enough to convey its cuteness. *It's quite difficult to picture a "mudskipper" from its design, so it's best to have a name that evokes this basis.
MARSHTOMP	MA[R]SH+STOMP=MA[R]SHTOMP. Same evolution as the Japanese names, going from "ミズ" (water) to "ヌマ" (swamp) to "ラグーン" (lagoon). Marshtomp is a name that combines MARSH (swamp) and STOMP, to put emphasis on its legs. It also implies the transition from four legs to two legs.
SWAMPERT	SWAMPERT = SWAM (swamp) + PERT (EXPERT or PERFECT). SWAMP has a broader meaning than MARSH. Expresses an idea of evolution, where its body, strength, and name all grow larger. The reason we didn't use LAGOON is because it has a tropical image, and only using LAG would bring to mind things like jetlag. Due to the difference in pronunciation between M and N, it won't be mistaken for "swan". Since SWAMP is an easily understandable word, it doesn't end up being SWAM+PERT.
POOCHYENA	Almost unchanged from the Japanese name. The English equivalent of Pochi is POOCH, so that was the only change.
MIGHTYENA	MIGHTYENA = MIGHTY + HYENA. The ena from HYENA is used, just like in Japan. MIGHTY is used in the first half to express strength. *The nuance of GRAND is difficult to understand with GRA, so we avoided using it.
ZIGZAGOON	ZIGZAGOON = RACCOON DOG + zigzag. The Japanese naming scheme was used as-is in English. ZIGZAG is a direct translation of ジグザグ. In Japan, raccoons are called "クマ [kuma]" (bear), although they are actually more closely related to tanuki (raccoon dogs). Therefore, the English name was based on "RAC[C]OON", which refers to both raccoons and tanuki. The name "Zigzagoon" was chosen because it goes well with the zigzag pattern.
LINOONE	The name is a play on "LINE" (straight line). The Japanese naming scheme was used as-is in English. LINE is a direct translation of マッスグ. In Japan, raccoons are called "クマ [kuma]" (bear), although they are actually more closely related to tanuki (raccoon dogs). Therefore, the English name was based on RAC[C]OON, which refers to both raccoons and tanuki. We gave up on STRAIGHT because it was too difficult to use. *The pronunciation of LINOONE is different from that of RAIKOU, so it's okay to use.
WURMPLE	From both WORM and CATERPILLER[sic]. Both refer to caterpillar. The spelling was changed to avoid being too obvious. The Japanese name is Kemusso [ケムッソ], which is not very creative. As it is the only caterpillar in Ruby and Sapphire, the English name was also given without much creativity.
SILCOON	SILCOON = COCOON + SILK. The word "silk" is used to create a sense of anticipation, as a caterpillar transforms into a chrysalis, and then evolves into a beautiful butterfly. Unlike in Japan, "silk" does not only refer to the thread that makes up specific cocoons, but is also sometimes used to refer to spider silk. Using "silk" also avoids the connotation of "RAC[C]OON". *CASCOON was named to suggest to players that this Pokémon can evolve in different ways.
BEAUTIFLY	BEAUTIFUL has been changed to more closely resemble "butterfly", creating Beautyfly. The straightforwardness of this design makes it very Pokémon-like. *The same approach as Butterfree, in a good way.
CASCOON	CASCOON = COCOON + CAST (plaster cast). In Japanese, "cast" is a word that is only in hospitals when someone breaks a bone, where "CAST" means "something that protects you", not unlike a "shield". Using "COCOON" implies "to protect oneself", and using "CAST" also avoids the meaning of "RAC[C]OON". *Counterpart of SILCOON.
DUSTOX	DUST (powder, can also mean dust) + TOXIC (poison). SCALE can refer to wing scales, but in most cases it means "fish scales". *MOTH has been used in past Pokémon names, so we avoided using it this time (as it could be thought of as an evolutionary relative).
LOTAD	LOTAD = TAD + LOTUS All three members of this line use LOTUS to create a commonality. TAD = small. おたまじ are also called TADPOLE. *Just because TAD is used does not necessarily imply it is a tadpole.
LOMBRE	LOMBRE = SOMBRERO + LOTUS. The suffix and prefix "LO-" are shared, which gives this line a nice, unified look! *In a sense, it is a pair with Seedot. Lotad and its evolved forms represent the "Yang" (good). Seedot and its evolved forms represent the "Yin" (evil). Their availability also depends on the version.
LUDICOLO	This name is based on LUDICROUS (funny, quirky, silly). It also evokes the word LOTUS. It has a similar feel to a Japanese name. Proposed after LOCOLO was rejected.
SEEDOT	SEEDOT = SEED + DOT. There are various ways to say "bou" [child], but we chose this one because it pairs well with SEED. DOT originally means "point", but it is also used to describe small things.
NUZLEAF	From NUZZLE (meaning "to do something with your nose"). Originally, 鼻 is NOSE, but because of Nosepass we used a different term. At first glance, it may be hard to tell it's NOSE, but the sound is quite close and it fits in visually as well.
SHIFTRY	SHIFTRY = SHIFTY (sly, deceptive) + TREE. As Tengu don't exist in the US, we'll take a different approach for this evolution. タネボー and コノハナ are imagined as SEED[OT] and [NUZ]LEAF respectively, so ダーテング gets TREE. We decided to combine this with the Tengu-like qualities of being SHIFTY (as in, cunning, skillful, deceitful), and make it SHIFTREE, instead of DIRTY, as the spelling is a play on words. TREE is already used by Treecko, and SHIFTREE wouldn't clearly convey the nuance of SHIFTRY.
TAILLOW	TAILLOW = TAIL + SWALLOW. If it's "Swallowtail" (a split tail), then the word "tail" alone evokes the image of a swallow. By adding LL, it becomes easier to understand, and also pairs well with SWELLOW.
SWELLOW	SWELLOW = SWALLOW + SWELL (cool). It not only means "cool", but also has the nuance of being physically large. The original spelling has been left almost unchanged, giving it a feel that is close to the image of the Japanese name.
WINGULL	WINGULL = SEAGULL (seagull) + WING The emphasis is on wings. It fits well as a Pokemon name. ■Trademark related■ The domain name "wingull.com" was registered, but there were no issues.
PELIPPER	Unchanged from the Japanese name. Comes from PELICAN and FLIPPER (webbed feet).
GARDEVOIR	GARDEVOIR = GU[A]RDIAN (protector) + DEVOIR (duty) All SIR-related words are masculine (BARON, DUKE, COUNT, etc.), so we avoided using them. Based on the Pokédex description.
SURSKIT	SURSKIT = SKIT + SUR (from water surface, surf). アメンボウ = Water Skipper, Water Skitter. SKIP has already been used (Skiploom). A combination of SUR, referring to the water's surface, surf, and SKIT.
MASQUERAIN	Its antennae patterns were designed to resemble eyes, and its body shape was modeled after a masquerade mask.
SHROOMISH	SHROOMISH = MUSHROOM + ish ("something like"). This name comes from MUSHROOM, so we tried to preserve the original meaning. Mushrooms are sometimes nicknamed shrooms. We played on that and added "ish" at the end, becoming "something like (a mushroom)", which gives it a Pokémon-like feel. *Decided based on how "cute" the name sounds.
BRELOOM	BRELOOM = UMBRELLA + MUSHROOM. The first half of "umbrella", UMBR, is used by another Pokémon, so the second half was used instead. The "loom" from mushroom was added to this to make it closer to the Japanese name. The similarity with Shroomish is also emphasized.
SLAKOTH	SLOTH + SLACK (to be lazy). Sounds very similar to SLACK OFF, and expresses laziness well.
VIGOROTH	VIGOROTH = VIGOR + SLOTH. Expresses mental motivation. Slakoth and Slaking each seem to have their own unique personalities. VIGOR is a good fit.
SLAKING	SLAKING = SLACK (being lazy/slacking off) + KING. KING was added to emphasize how lazy it is. A straightforward name. *Considering that "ナマケロ" = "SLAKOTH", naming it with the same etymology (SLACK OFF) makes it easier to understand this Pokémon's unique change from lazy, to energetic, and back to lazy is easy to understand. The Japanese names use the words "laziness" [怠け], "motivation" [やる気], and "skipping work" [欠勤] to make the change in personality straightforward.
NINCADA	NINCADA = NINJA + CICADA. Cicadas exist in the southeastern part of North America, but are almost non-existent in the northwestern part of the country, such as Seattle. Everyone knows they exist, but there are many people who have never seen one, so we decided to use the name CICADA as much as possible. Since "ninja" is a Japanese word, we followed suit and used NINCADA in the US. *The basic idea for Nincada and its evolved forms is "ninja."
NINJASK	NINJASK = NINJA + MASK. The reason for using "iron mask" is to evoke the image of a mask, based on its appearance, rather than the hardness of iron. *Since the Japanese name gives the impression of a "steel type", it would be better not to use the words "ALLOY" or "METAL", as to avoid being misleading like said Japanese name.
SHEDINJA	There is a word called "SHED", which means to outgrow one's shell. Although it's a bit of a contradiction meaning-wise, it flows very well as seen here.
WHISMUR	WHISMUR = WHISPER+MURMUR. The cartoony expression "gonyogonyo" [ゴニョゴニョ, sound of mumbling, whispering] is rarely used in the United States, and there is no equivalent that could be used. Therefore, we combined two words used for hushed conversations and whispered words. By combining "ささやき" (whisper) and "つぶやき" (murmur), we were able to approximate the Japanese expression "gonyogonyo". The ending "MUR" sounds soft, and matches the appearance of "gonyogonyo".
LOUDRED	LOUDRED = LOUD (loud voice) + DREAD (frightening). Chosen to have the same impact as the Japanese name. LOUD is straightforward, but DREAD has the meaning of being frightening, giving this name a powerful feel.
EXPLOUD	EXPLOUD = LOUD + EXPLOSION. Same naming scheme as the Japanese name.
MAKUHITA	When we explained the naming concept to the local staff, they thought it was very interesting. And since we had deliberately included Japanese names with Red & Blue and Gold & Silver, we wanted to use it as-is, but the large number of syllables made it difficult to pronounce. As such, we made some changes to make it easier for local people to pronounce. → It's fine to use as long as it evokes the image of a Japanese sumo.
HARIYAMA
AZURILL	AZURILL = AZURE (lapis-lazuli) + MARILL. The name was chosen to match the original etymology (azure), and the cute image of the Japanese name, while also taking into consideration the name of its evolution. The English spelling of "マリル" is MARILL, but its evolved form, "マリルリ", is AZUMARILL. Since the English name "Azumarill" doesn't translate to Japanese, an original name was conceived. Based on "AZURE (lapis lazuli)", the Y was added to create a sense of consistency and cuteness. Can be used in Europe and the United States. It was very well received in Spain, Italy, Germany, and France.
SKITTY	SKITTY = SKIT (to run quickly) + FRISKY (playing around) + KITTY (a nickname for a kitten). FRISKY (to play around) is only used for cats, so it's very easy to understand. By adding KITTY (a nickname for a kitten) in the other half, it expresses cuteness.
DELCATTY	DELCATTY = DELICACY (elegance, modesty) + CATTY. This name was chosen with the feeling that a playful kitten has grown into a calm adult. As the word ends with CY, it has a different meaning from DELICATE (fragile). There is also a wordplay here, with KITTY becoming CATTY.
SABLEYE	SABLEYE = SABLE (black, darkness, lack of light) + EYE. The original word for "glare" is "STARE", but one of the characteristics of English is that many words end with "e", and ending with EYE sounds nice, so it became "SABLE (black, darkness)". It has a strong image of "darkness". It gives the image of a new species of Pokémon.
MAWILE	MAWILE = MAW (slang for "mouth") + WILE (plotting something). MAW (slang for "mouth") is defined in dictionaries as meaning "stomach", but generally it means "mouth". CHEAT has a stronger connotation of "doing something dishonest" rather than "deceiving", and is commonly used in the sense ill-earned gains, so we decided not to use it.
ARON	ARON = ARMOR + RON. We wanted to convey the idea of an "iron armor" in this short name, so we added ARMOR to make it "ARON". Its evolved forms, LAIRON and AGGRON, have many letters in their names, so we aimed to make this one as short and impactful as possible.
LAIRON	LAIR (a place where beasts dwell) refers to a cave, so it's similar to "mine". To it, we added "RON".
AGGRON	AGGRON = AGGRESSIVE + IRON. AGGRESSIVE also has the nuance of "doing something proactively", so it matches well. It's evolved into a powerful-sounding name: "ARON[] → LAIRON → AGGRON".
MEDITITE	Yoga could be seen as a religious expression, so we decided to use "MEDITATE" to be on the safe side. Comes from the fact that Meditite meditates strongly (TIGHT=TITE). *The image of "meditation" (MEDITATE) fits so well that we had trouble deciding on a Japanese name for it.
MEDICHAM	This is one of those Pokémon that are difficult to name. We added "CHARM" to make it reminiscent of its Japanese name, and also used its pre-evolved form, "MEDITITE". We placed emphasis on this Pokémon's characteristic of entering a trance state while meditating (MEDITATE).
ELECTRIKE	ELECTRIKE = ELECTRIC + LIGHTNING STRIKE / STRIKE.
MANECTRIC	MANECTRIC = MANE + ELECTRIC. We felt that the Japanese name calls to mind racehorses, and also because the Pokémon itself resembles a horse.
PLUSLE	Basically unchanged from the Japanese name, spelling aside. PRASLE does not have a meaning of "positivity" and is therefore unclear. To clearly convey the idea of positivity, the spelling has been changed to PLUSLE. This is because R and L are very different in English.
VOLBEAT	VOLBEAT = VOLT + BEAT. Only used in the US. From LIGHT BULB, but simply saying BULB makes it clear it's a lightbulb. It also sounds similar to Bulbasaur, and could be mistaken for a grass-type. Legal made sure we were careful about the pronunciation because it sounds similar to Mattel's Barbie doll. As such, we used the word VOLT, which is not too far off pronunciation-wise and seems to match in nuance, and we left "beat" as-is. The "BEAT" part is pronounced the same as the French word "BITE" (penis). As a company in Breda, Netherlands, already uses this name, it can't be used in Europe. Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. However, due to differences in meaning and trademarks between countries, it was extremely difficult to establish a name that would be universally accepted. As such, in the end, the North American version was decided upon first, and it was decided that a different name would be chosen for Europe.
GULPIN	GULPIN = GULP (to swallow) + GOBLIN. Same naming scheme as the Japanese name. This name was derived from the image of swallowing food without chewing. It's easy to understand and fits well with the intent. *The result of considering the localization of its evolution, "Swalot".
SWALOT	SWALOT = SWALLOW (to swallow whole) + LOT (a lot, many). SWALLOW also refers to the bird, so we only used only the first half to make the meaning clear. This evolutionary line is made up of GULPIN and SWALOT. A faithful English translation of the Japanese term "ゴクン" (to swallow whole). Given that there is a Pokémon named Snorlax, this name seems appropriate for its role in relation to food. Rather than just being a voracious eater, this Pokémon swallows everything whole, just as its name suggests. "SWALOT" makes for a fitting name.
CARVANHA	CARVE (to cut) + CANNIBAL + PIRANHA. Thought up to express the sharpness of a piranha's teeth. CARVE emphasizes how sharp they are. Piranhas are carnivorous, so CANNIBAL can be seen as fitting. The spelling of "piranha" is unique, so adding "ANHA" at the end makes it clear that it refers to a piranha. Expresses strength. It sounds nice too.
SHARPEDO	There is no English equivalent to "shark skin" [鮫肌]. This name's origin comes from "shark" + "torpedo". It expresses coolness very well.
WAILMER	This name is a play on the word WAHLE[sic]. "鯨" is WHALE in English, but the WH at the start makes it inconvenient to use, so we changed it to WAI, which has the same pronunciation but a different spelling. MER is reminiscent of "ocean", like marine, mermaid, or merman, and at the same time has an American nickname feel to it. "WHALE" wasn't used because using the first three letters would result in the pronunciation "wa", so the spelling was changed slightly to "WALE" to make it sound and look similar to "whale". The reason we didn't use the spelling "WAIL" is because it refers to the sound an animal makes when sad or in pain. A Pokémon name that is shared across Europe and the US.
WAILORD	WAILORD = WHALE + LORD (title). Done as to express its size. *"LORD" gives it the feeling of being a stronger evolved form. We kept WAILMER's "WAIL" and used it here to create a commonality.
NUMEL	NUMEL = NUMB (no sensation) + CAMEL. Same naming scheme as the Japanese name.
CAMERUPT	CAMERUPT = CAMEL + ERUPT (volcanic eruption). Same naming scheme as the Japanese name. An eruption is generally called an EXPLOSION, but we avoided using it because it is too simple, and we thought it would overlap with the English name "TYPHLOSION".
TORKOAL	This name's previous rejection has been overturned. Different sound, but the meaning remains the same. Since COAL seems obvious, the spelling has been changed to KOAL. Since Squirtle uses the word "turtle", we wanted to not suggest there is an evolutionary relationship.
SPOINK	SPOINK = SPRING + OINK. The Japanese name was chosen without much modification. It has a relaxed feel that is pleasant to the ears, almost surprisingly so, and it successfully conveys the cuteness of this Pokémon.
GRUMPIG	From GRUMPY (grumpy, sulky). GRUMPY is a very commonly used word. *The "BOO" [oink] in BOOPIG was avoided because there is a possibility that it could be mistaken for a ghost type. A cliché, straightforward, yet peculiar name.
SPINDA	SPINDA = PANDA + SPOT (spotted). SPOT is mostly used for dogs, so it doesn't bring to mind pandas. Pandas are not as popular in the US as they are in Japan, so we thought it would be good to use PANDA as the base. Combined with the expression for spinning (SPIN), we came up with SPINDA.
TRAPINCH	TRAPINCH = TRAP + PINCH (to pinch, to squeeze). In Japan, it is used as the antonym of "chance", but it is not used much in English and is often used to mean "to pinch". *The Japanese name was taken from "nutcracker" because it gives the impression of tightly "pinching and squeezing" with its large jaws.
CACNEA	From CACTUS. Same naming scheme as the Japanese name.
CACTURNE	As explained in the Pokédex, it is known as something that walks at night. From NOCTURNAL. Since NOCT is used for Noctowl, the latter half (URN) was used instead.
SWABLU	SWABLU = SWAB + BLUE. It's a bluebird, but it has cotton on its wings, so the word SWAB was used. While the dictionary lists it as a "cotton swab", the word "swab" has a broader meaning and refers to cotton in general. While cotton swabs have been around for decades, swab is a much older word. Adding "blue" to SWAB gives us SAWBLU. SWABLU expresses this Pokémon's distinctive features. "Cotton" is a more important trait than "blue bird," so the name was chosen to be "SWABLU".
ALTARIA	It's a play on the original Japanese name, ALTAIR. ARIA, which means "chant", was added at the end. It makes for a very beautiful name.
SEVIPER	Comes from SEVER, meaning "to cut". It has the same impact as GORE. Snake terms include SNAKE, COBRA, PYTHON[*], BOA, SERPENT, VIPER, etc. Among these, VIPER is the one that seems likely to fight on equal terms with a mongoose. SNAKE and COBRA have been used for Ekans and Arbok, and Python and Boa are too imposing. SERPENT would likely fight on equal terms, but is difficult to use as a name. VIPER fits the criteria.
BARBOACH	BARBOACH = LOACH + BARBEL (fish whisker). LOACH are not as familiar as they are in Japan. There are regional variations, but they are not very common, so we kept the original LOACH as much as possible and added BARBEL (fish whisker) to express its appearance. It's easy to tell the difference between the pre-evolution and evolution. We tried a few different spellings, but settled on this after considering ease of pronunciation and whether you could picture a LOACH just by looking at it.
WHISCASH	WHISCASH = CATFISH + WHISKER (from the whiskers unique to catfish). CATFISH doesn't make sense if it's just CAT or FISH. Like with Barboach, we've captured the distinctive appearance of catfish by using its WHISKERS, and then added CAT+FISH to it. Not only does it retain the sound of CATFISH, but it's also a good progression from Barboach in terms of meaning.
CORPHISH	CORPHISH = CORPS + FISH. Crayfish are commonly seen in the United States, where they are known by names such as CRAWFISH, CRAYFISH and CRAWDAD. In Japan, they are thought of as creatures that can destroy ecosystems, but this is not the case in the US. The image of them living in groups, or rather swarms, is common in both Japan and the US. The word CORPS means soldiers, and is used to express their large numbers. Adding FISH to it makes it sound similar to CRAWFISH. It matches quite well.
CRAWDAUNT	CRAWDAUNT = CRAWDAD + DAUNT (to intimidate or frighten). DAUNT is a stronger word, so it can stand out from CORPHISH.
BALTOY	BALANCE TOY (ヤジロベエ), shortened to BALTOY. It sounds like a Pokémon name.
CLAYDOL	CLAYDOLL, from "clay". * "CLAYDOL" makes it easy to understand the original intent (clay figurine).
LILEEP	LILEEP = LILY + PEEP. The word PEEP was added to give the idea of it peeking from the depths.
ANORITH	This name is a contraction of Anomalocaris, the Japanese name's origin, and also includes a notion of DEEP [depth].
FEEBAS	FEEBAS = FEEBLE (poor, weak) + BASS. FEEBAS is made by adding BASS to FEEBLE. The reason there are no two S's at the end is because ASS sounds negative.
MILOTIC	From VENUS DE MILO. MILOKAROSS is quite difficult to pronounce in English, so we have given up on using it. Pronounced as "mylokaros", it has more syllables and is therefore harder to pronounce. MILOTIC is based on Milo. It not only means venus-like, but also contains LOTIC, meaning "living in water". The latter is not found in small dictionaries. *All of them are beautiful names that seem to suit the appearance of this Pokémon, and they are also meaningful, so it was a difficult pick. But "LOTIC" (living in water) is straightforward, and fits this Pokémon.
CASTFORM	Comes from FORECAST (weather forecast). Flipping it around and adding "form", it becomes CASTFORM (because its appearance changes based on the weather). [The original name is] a combination of the onomatopoeia for floating and foam. No comical expression could be found, and FLY and FLOAT would have been too direct, so this name was chosen with a different angle in mind. *This Pokémon's unique trait is that its appearance changes based on the weather.
KECLEON	Unchanged from the Japanese name. From CHAMELEON. A name based on Japanese phonetics, it has no semantic problems and can be used in Europe and the US. Originally "CHAMELEON", but CHA is strongly reminiscent of "CHARMANDER", so the spelling was changed. In other languages (including French), "CA[CA]" means "poop", so the spelling was changed. It's possible to guess that it is a chameleon from the LEON part.
SHUPPET	SHUPPET = SHADOW + [PU]PPET. The change from Shuppet to Banette feels natural. Originally it was SHA, from SHADOW, but that would change the pronunciation and meaning, so it was avoided. Visually, SHU is not easily associated with SHADOW, but phonetically, it is the same as SHADOW, so it is easily paired.
BANETTE	BANETTE = BANE (something bad, torment) + NETTE (marionette) From a puppet, it evolves into a marionette. The second half is a reference to "marionette".
DUSKULL	DUSKULL = DUSK + SKULL. Named after its appearance (SKULL, from its face). The word DUSK (dusk/twilight) was added to convey the idea of the "witching hour". →The "KULL" part is pronounced the same as the French word "CUL" (ass). "DUSKULL" is the name of a plant in Norway. *The aim was to create a universal name. Since the original name is based on Japanese, we tried to make one that would be shared between Europe and the US. However, we couldn't agree on it with the European side of things, so we decided to work on the North American version first.
DUSCLOPS	To be consistent with DUSKULL, the "DUS" part is shared. Its appearance gives the impression of a giant, and the fact that it has one eye has led to it being combined with "CYCLOPS". Spanish: Difficult to pronounce, but it's no problem. Italian: Difficult to pronounce, but it's no problem. French: CLOP means "cigarette". Also, considering that "DUSCULL" can't be used in French, it seems best to think of a French name as well. German: In German it means "you meatball". DU = you, KLOPS = meatball. *The aim was to create a universal name. Since the original name is based on Japanese, we tried to make one that would be shared between Europe and the US. However, we couldn't agree on it with the European side of things, so we decided to work on the North American version first.
CHIMECHO	There are no fūrin in the United States, but there are similar things. They are usually called WIND CHIME, and are functionally the same as fūrin. Based on CHIME, we added ECHO to make it sound like a proper name. A straightforward name.
ABSOL	Unchanged from the Japanese name. *It will be featured in the 2003 movie, so we would like to give it global appeal.
WYNAUT	Whether the ending rises or falls, it matches the phrases "Sō na no?" and "Sō na no!". Also, since it starts with a W and ends with a T, it matches the English name WOBBUFFET. The original spelling is WHY NOT, it's a memorable name that's easy to remember.
SNORUNT	SNORUNT = SNOW + RUNT (small creature). We decided that we should emphasize "snow" rather than "cold" (in Europe and the US, "yukidaruma" are called "SNOWMAN"). In other words, we thought that adding "SNOW" would make it easier to associate it with a living creature. CHILD and CHILLED are also straightforward, but we gave up on them due to various reasons that made them difficult to use.
GLALIE	GLALIE = GLACIER (mound of ice) + GOALIE (goalkeeper). Since GLACIER is seen as being "large", this represents the fact it's an evolved form.
SPHEAL	SPEAL = SEAL + SPHERE. Easy to pronounce and easily associated with SEAL.
SEALEO	In terms of size and evolution, it is a SEA LION. In the US, this line goes from SEAL, to SEA LION, to WALRUS, after their respective animals. Since there is no twist in SEALION, it was shortened to LEO. The act of balancing a ball on the tip of the nose is called BOUNCE, but it's already used by other Pokémon.
WALREIN	WALREIN = WALRUS + REIGN. A powerful name.
CLAMPERL	CLAMPERL = CLAM (shell) + CLAMP + PEARL. It can be read in many ways, but the words CLAM and PEARL stand out.
GOREBYSS	The feel of the word "ABYSS" was left unchanged, and since there was no beautiful word to replace "sakura" (it would be "pink", but there was no elegant way to express it), "GORGEOUS" was used to give it an air of strength, being an evolved form. This and "ABYSS" flow well together in terms of wording.
RELICANTH	We chose a name that evokes an old man's Japanese name, and evokes a sense of age. RELIC (something ancient, ruins). We think it effectively conveys the idea of a coelacanth, a living fossil.
LUVDISC	LUVDISC = LOVE + DISCUS. Since LOVE has a slightly more direct meaning, we changed it to LUV. The pronunciation is the same. It comes from DISCUS, an actual tropical fish. *The ending -CUS of the Japanese name cannot be used as it is considered a very negative expression in English.
BAGON	BAGON = BABY + DRAGON. At first glance it sounds similar to BACON, but it sounds quite different. It also has a tougher feel to it. *When comparing it with past Pokémon names, there are no dragon-type Pokémon whose English names end in GON.
SHELGON	SHELGON = SHELTER + SHELL (shell = to hide) + DRAGON. You wouldn't think it was a shell-like Pokémon just from its appearance. *The words "SHELTER" and "SHELL" could not be used in Japanese names as they have been used in the past. There is also a Pokémon called SHELLDER which uses the word SHELL in its North American name, but the spelling with two L's makes it easier to picture "shellfish", while SHEL (one L) is more easily associated with SHELTER. Because the original etymology is the same, SHELTER also contains the meaning of SHELL. SHELL and SHELTER are words that cannot be separated by a line. Therefore, when you use the word SHELTER, it's natural to associate it with SHELL, and although it may also be associated with a shellfish, the idea of "defense" remains.
SALAMENCE	SALAMENCE = SALAMANDER + MENACE (threat). The MANDER in salamander is shared with CHARMANDER, so we avoided using it. We kept the first half, SALA, and added MENACE (threat) to tie in with the letter "m". Writing it as MENACE is too obvious, so we played around with the spelling. Not only does it sound cool, but it also has a cool meaning.
BELDUM	From DUMBEL. DUMBBER means "idiot" and unfortunately cannot be used. The spelling is just a coincidence. DUMBEL is turned around to become BELDUM. Phonetically, it retains the rhyme of the original meaning, and gives a stronger impression of being a steel-type Pokémon, like Metang and Metagross.
REGIROCK	Unchanged from the Japanese name. * Because it's an important Pokémon, we're aiming for a universal name.
REGICE
REGISTEEL
LATIAS
LATIOS
KYOGRE
GROUDON
RAYQUAZA
JIRACHI
DEOXYS

Name Supplements (名前補足)#

Name (English)	Name (Japanese)	Supplement
ABSOL	アブソル	It will be featured in the 2003 movie, so we would like to give it global appeal.
ILLUMISE	イルミーゼ	"Illumise" itself does not emit light, but rather attracts "Volbeat" and uses them to create light patterns with the glow of their tails. The name 'Illumise' is derived from the word "illumination". The image is that of decorative lights, night lights, and embellishings.
KYOGRE	カイオーガ	Because it's an important Pokémon, we're aiming for a universal name.
GROUDON	グラードン
MIGHTYENA	グラエナ	Since there is another Pokémon (Walrein) that is more suitable for "fang" (キバ). "Graena" [Mightyena] is instead associated with an impression of "strength" and "size".
SLAKING	ケッキング	This Pokémon's unique change from lazy, to energetic, and back to lazy is easy to understand. The Japanese names use the words "laziness" [怠け], "motivation" [やる気], and "skipping work" [欠勤] to make the change in personality straightforward.
DUSCLOPS	サマヨール	Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. However, due to differences in meaning and trademarks between countries, it was extremely difficult to establish a name that would be universally accepted. As such, in the end, the North American version was decided upon first.
JIRACHI	ジラーチ	Because it's an important Pokémon, we're aiming for a universal name.
WYNAUT	ソーナノ	Whether the ending rises or falls, it matches the phrases "Sō na no?" and "Sō na no!". Also, since it starts with a W and ends with a T, it matches the English name WOBBUFFET. The original spelling is WHY NOT, it's a memorable name that's easy to remember. [Wynaut is named after a pun with the sentence "Sō na no" (そうなの, lit. "Is that so?").]
SEEDOT	タネボー	Lotad and its evolved forms represent the "Yang" (good), while Seedot and its evolved forms represent the "Yin" (evil). Their availability also depends on the version.
NINCADA	ツチニン	The basic idea is "ninja".
DEOXYS	デオキシス	Because it's an important Pokémon, we're aiming for a universal name.
NINJASK	テッカニン	Since the Japanese name gives the impression of a "steel type", it would be better not to use the words "ALLOY" or "METAL", as to avoid being misleading like said Japanese name. The basic idea is "ninja". [Ninjask's Japanese name is "Tekkanin" (テッカニン), from "tetsukamen" (鉄仮面, iron mask) and "ninja" (忍者).]
SLAKOTH	ナマケロ	This Pokémon's unique change from lazy, to energetic, and back to lazy is easy to understand. The Japanese names use the words "laziness" [怠け], "motivation" [やる気], and "skipping work" [欠勤] to make the change in personality straightforward.
SHEDINJA	ヌケニン	The basic idea is "ninja".
CACTURNE	ノクタス	Cacturne's image is "stalking".
LOTAD	ハスボー	Lotad and its evolved forms represent the "Yang" (good), while Seedot and its evolved forms represent the "Yin" (evil). Their availability also depends on the version.
VOLBEAT	バルビート	Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. However, due to differences in meaning and trademarks between countries, it was extremely difficult to establish a name that would be universally accepted. As such, in the end, the North American version was decided upon first, and it was decided that a different name would be chosen for Europe.
LINOONE	マッスグマ	The zigzag shape changes to a straight line after evolution! This surprise twist is the key to this Pokémon.
SWALOT	マルノーム	Rather than just being a voracious eater, this Pokémon swallows everything whole, just as its name suggests.
MUDKIP	ミズゴロウ	It's quite difficult to picture a "mudskipper" from its design, so it's best to have a name that evokes this basis.
VIGOROTH	ヤルキモノ	This Pokémon's unique change from lazy, to energetic, and back to lazy is easy to understand. The Japanese names use the words "laziness" [怠け], "motivation" [やる気], and "skipping work" [欠勤] to make the change in personality straightforward.
DUSKULL	ヨマワル	Duskull's image is "wandering" [彷徨う].
DUSKULL	ヨマワル	Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. However, due to differences in meaning and trademarks between countries, it was extremely difficult to establish a name that would be universally accepted. As such, in the end, the North American version was decided upon first..
LATIAS	ラティアス	Because it's an important Pokémon, we're aiming for a universal name.
LATIOS	ラティオス
REGICE	レジアイス
REGISTEEL	レジスチル
REGIROCK	レジロック
RAYQUAZA	レックウザ

*Based on the Pokédex descriptions, names that match the image of the Pokémon.
*Avoid using names that are similar to names previously used.

Early Name	Final Name	Explanation	Reason for Rejection
FORESTILE	SCEPTILE	FOREST + REPTILE.	*Don't use (sounds too similar to FORRETRESS).
REPTZAR	SCEPTILE	REPTZAR = REPTILE + TZAR (meaning "Russian emperor"). If an American child were to associate the name "REPTZAR" with "Russian emperor," wouldn't they also associate it with Russia? (ice, extreme cold, negative Cold War imagery, etc.)	→Name change. While the name did have the meaning of "Russian emperor", but "(Maha) Raja" had the same connotation as "Indian king". Fortunately, there were no associations with ice and the likes. Opinions were sought from more than ten people, and all but one said it wasn't a problem. →Even if only one person interprets it that way, there is a possibility, so it can't be used.
CHICWICK	TORCHIC	CHICWICK = CHICK + WICK (candle wick) Rhymes. Easily rolls off your tongue, and easy to understand its type.	*Don't use (TORCHIC is more fitting).
CHICOAL	TORCHIC	CHICOAL = CHICK + COAL (reminiscent of fire). Easily rolls off your tongue, and easy to understand its type.	*Don't use (TORCHIC is more fitting).
INCINIKEN	COMBUSKEN	INCINICKEN = INCINERATE + CHICKEN. It rhymes and uses words that are familiar to children.	→We wanted to standardize the ending of this line with "-ock", so this name was rejected. *Afterwards, we stopped the "-ock" standardization, but it was still rejected. This was the very first proposal.
FLAMOCK		FLAME + COCK (chicken). Simple but straightforward, in a good way. The names of the Pokémon before and after it are consistent: "TORCHICK → FLAMOCK → BLAZOCK". Note: If the pronunciation is "FLA – MOCK", wouldn't that be interpreted as "mock", meaning "to ridicule"?	*"TORCHICK → FLAMOCK → BLAZOCK". There's room for even the slightest misunderstanding, so "-OCK" is a no-go.
SCORCOCK		SCORCH (burn) + COCK (chicken). The main focus is on "burnt". The "COCK" in the second half makes for a nice play on words.	*Don't use "-OCK", as it can give off a slightly strange impression.
SCORCKEN	BLAZIKEN	SCORCKEN = SCORCH (to burn) + CHICKEN. This expresses the idea of chicken, which has fire as its type. Adding the "chicken" part gives it a cool look.	*Don't use (BLAZIKEN is more fitting).
BLAZOCK	BLAZIKEN	BLAZOCK = BLAZE (flame) + COCK (nickname for chicken). Flames are cool, matching the coolness of a rooster. It gives the impression of growing stronger through evolution. COCK doesn't have a positive meaning, but using it in this way avoids any negative connotations.	*Don't use "-OCK", as it can give off a slightly strange impression.
MUDKIN	MUDKIP	MUDKIN = MUD SKIPPER + KINDERGARDEN [sic]. "ムツゴロ" is MUD SKIPPER in English. Literally, it means "mud" and "jumping". Since there's no single word to describe it, the name is based on "MUD," which evokes the sound of MUD SKIPPER. The addition of KIN captures the name's "childlike" and "cute" qualities. It's the "kin" in kindergarten. In this case, MUDKIN makes it a little harder to associate with MUD SKIPPER. Compared to Torchic and Treeko, the more childlike name is more likely to stand out.	*Don't use. MUDKIP is better because it's reminiscent of the original name.
FANGENA	MIGHTYENA	FANGENA = FANG + HYENA. The "ena" in HYENA is used, just like in Japan. The first half uses "FANG".	*Don't use. There is another Pokémon (Walrein) that is more suitable for "fang" (キバ). "Graena" [Mightyena] is instead associated with an impression of "strength" and "size".
HORIZOON	LINOONE	This name is a play on "HORIZON".	*The zigzag shape changes to a straight line after evolution! This surprise twist is the key to this Pokémon. Given how "HORIZON" doesn't convey this clearly, it's a no-go.
TWIGGLER	WURMPLE	TWIGGLER = TWIG + WIGGLE + CATERPILLER [sic]. Since insects (caterpillars) generally attach themselves to the branches and leaves of trees, we used TWIG. To it, we added the way a caterpillar moves (WIGGLE, wiggling) and the word CATERPILLER itself.	*Rejected by NOA legal.
SOMBRE	LOMBRE	From the word SOMBRE (sombrero), but it also has a nuance of SOMBER (gloomy).	*Don't use (LOMBRE is more fitting).
LOCOCTUS	LUDICOLO	LOCOTUS = LOCO (fooling around) + LOTUS. The Mexican (Spanish) word LOCO is often used in the US to create a cheerful image. LOCO means "fooling around" (a little crazily). This is a commonly accepted expression and has a high level of intimacy. *In the anime, it is depicted as a fairly silly and cheerful Pokémon. LOCO is a perfect fit.	*Rejected by legal.
ROMPILLY		ROMP means "to play/mess around". It exudes happiness.	*Don't use (LOCOCTUS is more fitting).
JOLILLY		JOLILLY is a play on the word JOLLY, making for a straightforward name.	*Don't use (LOCOCTUS is more fitting).
LOCOLO		LOCOLO = LOCO + LOTUS. Both looks and sounds fun. LOCO was used to create a sense of frenzy in a good way. *The meaning is OK, but it feels like the name of a pre-evolution. From the combination of "ko" (child) and "koro" (cutesy sound) and the number of characters (the number of characters increases after evolution). → This is a Japanese impression, so it's fine as long as it's sufficiently recognizable as the name of an evolution). This name was proposed after LOCOTUS was rejected during legal review.	*Don't use (too close to the name of a pre-evolution).
LOMICO		This name was created by splitting the word LOCO (fooling around) in half, so that it could have a phonetic association with AMIGO (meaning "friend"). This name was proposed after LOCOLO was rejected in a legal check.	*Don't use (LUDICOLO is more fitting).
SMALLOW	TAILLOW	SMALLOW = SWALLOW + SMALL. The name comes from SWALLOW. It was named to contrast with Swellow. We used SMALL, since it sounds weaker when compared to SWELL.	*Rejected by legal.
SWALLOOP	TAILLOW	SWALLOOP = SWALLOW + LOOP. The "loop" part comes from the image of a swallow flying through the sky, in a circular motion.	*Don't use (SMALLOW is more fitting).
AIRGULL	WINGULL	AIRGULL = SEAGULL + AIR. Emphasizes the "sky" feel.	*Don't use (WINGULL is more fitting).
PONDROP	SURSKIT	PONDROP = POND + DROP (candy).	*Don't use (SURSKIT is more fitting).
SHROOMUSH	SHROOMISH	Since "キノコ" [kinoko] becomes MUSHROOM, we tried to preserve the original meaning. We flipped the word around. In Japanese, it would be called "Konoki".	*Don't use (SHROOMISH is more fitting).
MUSHROAM	SHROOMISH	MUSHROAM = MUSHROOM + ROAM (to walk around). This name is close to the Japanese name, and not too far removed from the original word "mushroom."	*Don't use (SHROOMISH is more fitting).
SLAZOTH	SLAKOTH	ナマケモノ = SLOTH. SLACK = being lazy, slacking off). SLAZOTH = SLOTH + LAZY. The meaning and name are both appropriate. Has a good feel.	*Don't use (SLAKOTH is a better match for the Japanese sloth).
VITALOTH	VIGOROTH	VITALOTH = VITAL + SLOTH. Expresses physical "motivation".	*Don't use (evokes mental "motivation").
SLEMPEROR	SLAKING	SLAKING = SLACK (being lazy, slacking off) + EMPEROR. It sounds good, but it also seems a bit plain.	*Don't use (the name with the same origin as Slakoth was more fitting).
LAZYOAF	SLAKING	LAZYOAF = LAZY + OAF. It's an "idiot" in a good sense, so we tried to emphasize its strength by combining two negative traits.
CICADIRT	NINCADA	CICADIRT = CICADA + DIRT.	*Don't use (doesn't contain the word "ninja").
CICALLOY	NINJASK	CICALLOY = CICADA + ALLOY. We combined CICADA, a word that brings to mind an iron mask<abbr title="The original entry has a typo, with '鉄仮面' (tetsukamen, "iron mask") mistakenly written as '鉄火面' (tekkamen).">[*], with ALLOY, as the two flow well together. It conveys hardness.	*Don't use (doesn't contain the word "ninja").
NINJETAL	NINJASK	NINJETAL = NINJA + METAL.	*Don't use (gives the impression of being a steel type).
HUSCADA	SHEDINJA	HUSCADA = CICADA + HUSK (shell). Although it can also refer to the shell of a seed, there is nothing strange about using it. CICADA was added to it.	*Don't use (doesn't contain the word "ninja").
AZULLY	AZURILL	From AZURE (lapis lazuli). The English spelling of "マリル" is MARILL, but its evolved form, "マリルリ", is AZUMARILL. Since the English name "Azumarill" doesn't translate to Japanese, an original name was conceived. Based on "AZURE (lapis lazuli)", the Y was added to create a sense of consistency and cuteness. Can be used in Europe and the United States.	*Don't use (AZURILL is more fitting).
RULILI		We transliterated the Japanese name "Ruriri", but R and L are very difficult to pronounce when they are next to each other, and it doesn't quite roll off the tongue.	*Don't use (AZURILL is more fitting).
LILAZU		When we considered "LILAZU" as a common name for the whole world except Japan, we found that it was difficult to pronounce in Europe.	→It's a "sound" that is hard to pronounce in Europe. *Don't use (AZURILL is more fitting).
SHADEYE	SABLEYE	SHADEYE = SHADE (shadow) + EYE. The original word for "glare" is "STARE", but one of the characteristics of English is that many words end with "e", and ending with EYE sounds nice, so it became "SHADE (shadow)". It sounds cool to the ears. It gives the image of a new species of Pokémon.	*Don't use (the pronunciation reminded us of "Jedi").
ORON	ARON	"RON" (monstrous image) + "IRON". The RON at the end not only expresses the monster-like nature of the name, but also reflects the image of iron. Since the only words that can mean "tunnel" are "cave" and the likes, a type was used instead. Rejected by legal.
MINERON	LAIRON	MINERON = MINERAL (ore) + RON.	*Not recommended as it brings to mind beverages such as mineral water.
RONARCH	AGGRON	RONARCH = RON + MONARCH. We moved the RON from the end of the name to the start, and added MONARCH to create a certain feel. It refers to monarchy, but also has a strong, authoritarian aura.	*Feels a little too elegant, so we decided against it. Go for a name that is "big", "strong", and "monster-like".
RONARCHY	AGGRON	RONARCHY = RON + ANARCHY. Pronounced "ronarky", which sounds strong and fits the image.	→Rejected for being inconsistent with the Pokémon's image, as seen in its Pokédex entry. The Pokédex says, "It protects its mountain home and plants tree seedlings to care for it when it becomes overgrown." The Pokédex says: "It protects the mountains where it lives, and when the mountain becomes barren, it plants tree seedlings and cares of them." "RONARCHY" sounds rough and mighty enough, but it contradicts the Pokémon's personality, so it's a no-go.
GLITTABUG	VOLBEAT	From JITTER BUG. This is not the name of an insect, but rather that of a dance. In Europe and the United States are LADY BUG (テントウムシ) and BED BUG (ナンキンムシ), so it's not unnatural to add BUG at the end of the name. The JITTER part was changed to GLITTER (to sparkle), giving it the meaning of "firefly". Can be used in both the US and Europe. A name that cleverly combines music and fireflies. *Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. However, due to differences in meaning and trademarks between countries, it was extremely difficult to establish a name that would be universally accepted. As such, in the end, the North American version was decided upon first.	*Don't use. The best name was as close as possible to the Japanese name.
LUMILIA	ILLUMISE	Spanish: No problem. Feels like an old-fashioned female name. Italian: Pronounced similarly to "l'umilia" ("humiliation" in Italian). French: No problem. German: No problem. Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. However, due to differences in meaning and trademarks between countries, it was extremely difficult to establish a name that would be universally accepted. As such, in the end, the North American version was decided upon first, and it was decided that a different name would be chosen for Europe.	Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. Rejected due to legal issues. The name's image and legal validity were given priority.
LUMINETTA		Spanish: No problem. Sounds like an Italian name. Italian: No problem. Sounds like an Italian name. French: No problem. German: Sounds like an Italian name or that of a kitchen utensil. The name of a real plant. http://www.esveld.nl/htmldia/a/abklum.htm Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. However, due to differences in meaning and trademarks between countries, it was extremely difficult to establish a name that would be universally accepted. As such, in the end, the North American version was decided upon first, and it was decided that a different name would be chosen for Europe.
LUMINETTE		Spanish: Sounds like a French name. Used as a product name for blinds. http://www.blindsdirect.com/luminette.htm Italian: Sounds like a French name. Used as a product name for blinds. http://www.transnationale.org/italien/fiches/293794372.htm French: In French, a beautiful woman is called a "MINETTE", so this is a beautiful-sounding name. However, LUMINETTE may be a registered trademark. German: Sounds like a French name. Used as a product name for a Swedish manufacturer (AURALIGHT). http://www.auralight.se/AuraWeb_eng.nsf/401?OpenPage Pokémon that feature prominently in the anime were aimed to have a universal name. However, due to differences in meaning and trademarks between countries, it was extremely difficult to establish a name that would be universally accepted. As such, in the end, the North American version was decided upon first, and it was decided that a different name would be chosen for Europe.
GOBBLEN	GULPIN	GOBBLEN = GOBBLE (to eat, to munch) + GOBLIN. Named in the same way as in Japanese. It's phonetically similar to the Japanese name. The reason we changed the last "I" to "E" is because GOBBLIN would have sounded too goblin-like, removing the nuance of "GOBBLE".	*Don't use (it sounds good because it's close to the Japanese name, but GULPIN is more fitting).
GLUDDEN	SWALOT	From GLUTTON (big eater). To match idea of evolution, EN was added at the end to form GLUDDEN. The pair of evolved forms is GOBBLEN and GLUDDEN. GOBBLEN comes from "goblin", but GLUDDEN gives the impression of having evolved with a full belly and feeling GLAD (happy). GLUTTON gives a strong image of eating. Food-related.	*Don't use (SWALOT is more fitting).
PIRAZOR	CARVANHA	PIRAZOR = PIRANHA + RAZOR. Unfortunately, fish teeth aren't called fangs, so the word RAZOR was chosen to match their sharpness. Along with SHARPEDO, it's a very cool name.	*Rejected by legal.
SHARANHA		PIRANHA + SHARP + SHARPEDO. Since it evolves into SHARPEDO, they can be related. PIRAZOR is no longer allowed.	*Rejected by legal.
BLADANHA		The word BLADE is used to express how sharp Carvanha's teeth are. The spelling of "piranha" is unique, so adding "ANHA" at the end makes it clear that it refers to a piranha. Expresses sharpness.	*Don't use (CARVANHA sounds scarier).
BASHARK	SHARPEDO	BASHARK = bash (heavy blow, attack) + shark.	*Don't use (SHARPEDO is more fitting).
SHRAZOR	SHARPEDO	SHRAZOR = shark + razor. It matches in terms of image. In terms of sound, it deviates slightly from "shark", but it is associated with the spelling.	*Don't use (SHARPEDO is more fitting).
WALECO	WAILMER	"鯨" is usually translated as "WHALE", but WHALECO is a real oil company, and changing the spelling still caused some problems. When the spelling was changed to start with HO, the English pronunciation became "hoa" [whore] (prostitute), which limited the possibilities for play on words. Since the Japanese name's "hoeru" itself is not phonetically accurate, so it is slightly different from the sound "ho".	Rejected by legal. "WALE KO ISLAM" - an inspirational saying among Muslim societies.[] It is a word often used in Islam, that has strong religious connotations and praises God. In light of the New York terrorist attack, and the fact that it would not be wise to support a specific religion, it was agreed to change it. This means that anything that sounds similar will also be rejected, so phonetic restrictions will be strict. ["WALE KO ISLAM" seems to be a mangled version of Wa-Alaikum-Salaam", an arabic greeting meaning "Peace be upon you".]
WALEKO			*Rejected by legal.
WAILECO			*Rejected by legal. Pronunciation is an issue, making it difficult to use and leaving concerns for the future.
WAILORE	WAILORD	WAILORE = WHALE + LORE (legends, traditions, folklore, etc.) Since Hoelko became WAILMER, to create a commonality, WAIL was left as-is and the ending was changed.	*Don't use (WAILORD is more fitting).
KOLTORT	TORKOAL	KOLTORT = COAL + TORTOISE. As COKE is also a certain type of beverage, we wanted to avoid using it and took a different approach, using COAL instead. However, COLT means horse, so we changed the spelling to K, keeping the same sound. We used the first half of TORTOISE (turtle) so as to not overlap with Blastoise's name.	*Rejected by legal.
BOING	SPOINK	BOING and GRUMPIG are both quite cleverly crafted. The sound a pig makes is OINK, and the bouncing of a spring is expressed with BING. It's a rather cliché name in English, but it's a peculiar one too (in a good way), as it combines the bouncing of a spring and the sound a pig makes.	*Rejected by legal.
PATCHEEL	SPINDA	Unchanged from the Japanese name.	*Rejected by legal.
PITRAP	TRAPINCH	PITRAP = PIT (hole) + TRAP. PITRAP comes from the idea of setting a TRAP in a hole (PIT), like an antlion.	*Don't use (TRAPINCH is more fitting).
TACTUS	CACNEA	TACK + CACTUS. Here TACK here represents the "spikes" of a cactus, giving it the spiky feel of a cactus. To it was added the second half of CACTUS.	*Rejected by legal.
NITERACK	CACTURNE	NITERACK = NIGHT + TRACK. As explained in the Pokédex, it is known as something that walks at night. In slang, NIGHT is written as NITE.	*Don't use. "NITERAK" would be too similar to "Duskull" [Yomawaru, lit. "night wanderer"].
SWABIRD	SWABLU	SWABIRD = SWAB + BIRD. It's a bluebird, but it has cotton on its wings, so the word SWAB was used. While the dictionary lists it as a "cotton swab", the word "swab" has a broader meaning and refers to cotton in general. While cotton swabs have been around for decades, swab is a much older word. Adding "bird" gives it a more general meaning.	*Don't use (SWABLU sounds cuter).
BLUJOY	SWABLU	From BLUE JAY (a blue bird). This one suggestion, BLUJOY, is a completely different approach. In the US, a "red bird" would be CARDINAL or ROBIN, but a "blue bird" would be BLUE JAY. The word JAY doesn't mean anything, and is always preceded by BLUE. As such, we thought that if we were to express the idea of a blue bird with America in mind, we would go with BLUJOY.	*Don't use (SWABLU is more fitting).
MONGOORE	ZANGOOSE	In the second half, we used GORE, meaning "to poke" or "to stab," based on the pronunciation of "mongoose", its appearance, and Zangoose's claws. It pairs well with SEVIPER.	*Rejected by legal.
NENDOLL	CLAYDOL	Unchanged from the Japanese name.	*Don't use. CLAYDOL is a better choice as it conveys the original intent (a clay figurine) better.
ANOPTH	ANORITH	ANOPTH = Anomalocaris + DEEP.	*Rejected by legal.
ANORIS	ANORITH	ANOPTH cannot be used. ANORIS is a contraction of Anomalocaris, the basis for the Japanese name.	*Don't use (ANORITH is more fitting).
SHABAS	FEEBAS	SHABBY + BASS The name follows the meaning of the Japanese name. The ending "AS" was changed because "ASS" would be inappropriate. The pronunciation remains the same.	*Rejected by legal.
PURETTY	MILOTIC	PURETTY = PURE + PRETTY (beautiful/lovely/pretty [美しい・愛おしい/日本語で] in Japanese have a slightly different meaning).	*Don't use (MILOTIC is more fitting).
PUREASE		PUREASE = PURE + EASE (in the sense of healing, to soothe and ease).
RELIEFAY		RELIEFAY = RELIEF (peace of mind) + FAY (fairy, beautiful).
CASTFOAM	CASTFORM	Comes from FORECAST (weather forecast). Flipping it around and adding "foam", it becomes CASTFOAM. [The original name is] a combination of the onomatopoeia for floating and foam. No comical expression could be found, and FLY and FLOAT would have been too direct, so this name was chosen with a different angle in mind.	*Don't use (CASTFORM is more fitting). (This Pokémon's unique trait is that its appearance changes based on the weather.)
KACLEON	KECLEON	[Same etymology as final.]	*Don't use (KECLEON is more fitting).
EYEDOLEN	DUSKULL	EYE (not EYES, so it means one-eyed) + EIDOLON (ghost, spirit) → In German, it's pronounced the same as "EI (egg)" + "DOLEN (plural of a type of bird)." *The aim was to create a universal name. Since the original name is based on Japanese, we tried to make one that would be shared between Europe and the US. However, we couldn't agree on it with the European side of things, so we decided to work on the North American version first.	[None listed.]
SPOOKING	DUSKULL	SPOOKY (ghost-like) + KING →Same name as a character appearing in the comic book "Wiz". *The aim was to create a universal name. Since the original name is based on Japanese, we tried to make one that would be shared between Europe and the US. However, we couldn't agree on it with the European side of things, so we decided to work on the North American version first.	[None listed.]
CHIMEWL	CHIMECHO	We made a few options based on "CHIME". We added MEWL (whimpering) to it. After reading the Pokédex description, we wondered whether it would be something like MEWL or MOAN.	*Don't use ("Mewl" is not in line with the Pokémon's image).
CHYMOAN	CHIMECHO	We made a few options based on "CHIME". We added MOAN (groaning) to it. After reading the Pokédex description, we wondered whether it would be something like MEWL or MOAN.	*Don't use ("Moaning" is not in line with the Pokémon's image).
YEWBET	WYNAUT	It is used in response to what the other person is saying, so it makes the conversation flow smoothly. But we think the aforementioned WYNAUT is easier to use. The original spelling is "YOU BET".	*Don't use (WYNAUT is more fitting).
CHILLDWELL	SNORUNT	It's a bit twisted. When we were thinking about how we could clearly express the theme of snow and children, we came up with the word CHILLED (meaning "cold"), which we think is used in Japan to refer to the chilled compartment of a refrigerator. CHILLED has a similar spelling to CHILD, and to it is added DWELL (where someone lives), so it turned out to be a fitting name. It's a good mix of "cold" and "child". Looking at it from another angle, it can also mean CHILLED WELL, or "well chilled".	*Rejected by legal.
ADORABYSS	GOREBYSS	ADORABYSS = ADORE (adorable) + ABYSS. We wondered what would happen if we kept "ABYSS" as-is and expressed the gap between its appearance and its actual behavior (as stated in the Pokédex). It rolls off the tongue better, and it's easier to understand its meaning when compared to GOREBYSS.	*Don't use (GOREBYSS has a more beautiful feel to it).