How to Pick Your Name as a Trans Man?

As a Trans man, be it the social, legal, or medical part of your transition, picking a name is an essential step to cementing your gender identity. It is up to you whether you want a fancy or casual name. So, how do you pick a name of your choice?

The options of picking a name are numerous. Anything or anyone that plays a significant role in your life can be converted into your Trans name. Other times, you may want something with a solid moral or thematic lesson. Your ancestral roots and even name suggestions from loved ones are an opportunity to pick a name for yourself. Your name is like your personal brand. So, make it personal by choosing a name that aligns with the core of your Trans maleness.

If you are wondering where to start when picking a Trans name, this read outlines some ways to help you pick a Trans name as a Trans man. Let’s dive in.

Explore Your Personal Connection to Names

Think about what names resonate with you in your personal life. Is it a villain character? The football player who makes your winning side alert? Or is it a personal interest, such as playing the piano? The options are numerous. The thing is, if a name gives you some sort of personal connection to your identity, then go for it.

Consider Brandon Jesse, who chose his name from characters. He curated a list of characters to create a Gaisgeach name for himself. As a writer, Brandon felt the name ‘Brandon’ to be ‘awkward,’ ‘rough,’ and ‘bro-like.’ His other name, Jesse, is also a character curated by him.

For the writer, ‘Jesse’ is gay, flamboyant, and emo with a tinge of crazy. Just the perfect Trans name for him as a writer.

Tip

The hack is to look for characters or figures who align with your determinants. Be it a pet or a fictional character, it is personal, so make it an individual name for yourself.

These will be the inner compass that reminds you of your brave trans-man identity.

Use Baby Name Lists and Name Generators

There is a big reason why couples always have a list of baby names to choose from when expecting a new bundle of joy. You never know which baby name speaks to your soul, as these names come from all over the globe, from different cultures or states.

Andrew Olson, a trans man, used a baby name. So did Leo Elliot, who took time to look for a male baby name on baby name-searching websites. At first, the name ‘Felix’ was his first choice. But he later chose Leo, a beautiful male name for a trans man.

The good news is that myriad websites are ready to educate you on baby names.

Modify your Birth Name for Continuity

Other times, you may not want to scrap your birth name altogether. You may want to evolve with your past into your current identity. In other words, sometimes maintaining and continuing to honor your past identity with your current name is critical to a new beginning. Thus, modifying your existing name can be the most satisfying choice.

Consider the real-life story of a trans man, Andrew Olson, who maintained his officials (A.M. Olsen). In his statement, Olson states he wanted to choose later a name that aligns with his original birth name.

Olson states that the name has grown over him like a ‘fungus’ or ‘some kind of weed.’ He feels connected to his original name as his current Trans name. And that is a win.

Tip

The tip here is to simply modify your name. Then, give it another name that complements the name of your choice.

As Olsen states, the name will become a part of your trans man identity, and you will become a part of it. Call it evolving with your Trans name.

Consider Cultural or Ancestral Significance

Roots are the invisible conduits to our culture or family heritage. As a trans man, maintaining your historical and ancestral codes through a naming system can be vital to stepping into your new identity.

Consider the real-life story of Brandon Jesse Gaisgeach, who goes by the name Gaisgeach. Gaisgeach originates from the Scottish etymology ‘Gaelic,’ which means warrior. You can choose another name that represents a culture distinct from yours.

It could be a name representing an animal, strength, a time period for a culture, and even your ancestors’ names. The choice is yours.

Tip

Choosing names from ancestral or cultural significance holds more weight in most cultures worldwide. It will always be the perfect reminder of where you have come from.

Additionally, it will be the guiding light to where you are going. So, culture wins in picking your name, Trans man.

Look for Names with Personal Meaning or Symbolism

If you have a personal connection with a name that signifies strength, transformation, courage, or any title that inspires you to be a better person, then voila! You have a name, dear trans man. Sometimes, names with symbolism of excellent qualities are what you need to remember to continue fanning the flame of authenticity in you as a Trans man.

When MacKenzie, a trans man, missed the feeling of the ocean breeze, he chose his name, ‘Morgan.’ The symbolic meaning of the name Morgan refers to ‘the bright sea’. Incredibly this nostalgic feeling inspired him to baptize himself with the feeling of an ocean breeze.

With mythology connected to the sea and ocean, the name Morgan symbolizes the greatness of the sea. It also has associations with the Irish goddess Fay and Arthurian legend.

Tip

Choosing names with symbolic meanings is a way to uphold the values and themes you respect more. The objective is to try different combinations of names while keeping your culture and ancestry in mind as a trans man. Culture rules and so should your name as a Trans man.

Draw Inspiration for Pop Culture and Media

Pop culture, media, and celebrities come with various personalities, events, and entertainment figures who are truly inspirational. Drawing inspiration from popular culture trends and personalities is an effective way to get a name as a Trans man because it is popular.

For instance, TV, Movies, and famous figures have a story to tell, a lesson to teach, a trait to embody, and an energy you may love as a fan or enthusiast.

Trans man Jack A. Lindsey, for instance, derived his name from famous cultural figures such as Jack Harkness. Jack Harkness is a protagonist in the film Dr. Who, a man with very sharp intellectual qualities.

The doctor is energetic and driven, something Lindsey admired. Another figure is Jack Sparrow, known for the all-time show Pirates of the Caribbean. He is a very masculine protagonist pirate.

Tip

The central aspect is selecting a popular cultural figure, personality, or even person you admire. Something in that character ignites your soul.

That means your trans identity and name could mesh well with the inspiration you draw from this particular popular culture figure.

Listen to Suggestions from Family and Friends

Friends and family can be some of your biggest supporters when looking for a name that aligns with your Trans identity. Friends and family can be the stepping stones to our new identity.

So, grab a pen and paper and consider suggestions from your loved ones. Make it fun and worthwhile.

For instance, Jensen Harbron chose this name with the help of a best friend. Harbron asserts that he knows his best friend as a number one supporter, so he would undoubtedly get the best name. A name beginning with the letter ‘J’ screamed perfect. And a few years later, the name Jenson was brewed by two best friends. Such a heartwarming way to pick a Trans name for yourself.

Tip

Friends and family may see sides of who you are that you cannot see. Hence, they can help you choose a name that aligns with your identity.

However, having the autonomy to choose a name that suits your fancy is a personal choice.

Do not feel swayed, coerced, or forced into picking your Trans name by people close to you. Take suggestions, but also take the wheel.

Conclusion

Trans men who legally transition find the name-picking process an important step in gender-affirming one’s identity. Your name as a representation of who you are matters. Popular culture offers some creative ways to get a name for you, Trans man.

Your roots tie you to your past and identity and can be a valuable source of your name. Invite friends and family into your transition by letting them help you choose a name. And if that does not work, baby name generators and personal connections can prove helpful.

Lastly, simple modification or continuation of your name is also a solution. Picking a name that sheds light on the core of who you are, your identity, and your physical presence is a process only you can decide, so have fun with this.