Pokemon Fire Red/Leaf Green English Name Meaning Guide By Awasai Version 1.6 Created 2/23/04 =============================================================================== Version History- 1.6 8/4/05 Added Bonsly, removed my e-mail. NOTE: to all who have e-mailed suggestions in the last year or so, I still haven't updated using your info yet. I can't promise anything, so just hold tight. 1.51 7/29/04 Just added that Neoseeker can also post this. 1.5 7/28/04 IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you've e-mailed me since June 26, I will not have received it because of a problem with my e-mail and internet. If you really feel that what you have to say is that important (i.e. check to see that I haven't already added whatever it is you are saying), then please resend your message. I apologize for the inconvienence. IMPORTANT NOTICE 2: I will be a lot more selective from now on, in terms of frivolously adding dumb suggestions that I receive, so don't assume that you'll see your name in the credits just because you mail me. Fixed: Absol, Meowth, Electrode, Magikarp, Piloswine, Azurill, Cloyster, Eevee, Jynx, Pupitar line, Sealeo, Skiploom, Dewgong, Exeggcute line, Rapidash, Mareep, Salamence, Farfetch'd, Jumpluff, Kyogre, Politoed, Gardevoir, Ludicolo, Mankey, Mudkip, Natu, Hariyama, Flygon, Seedot, Shellder, Ampharos, Tauros, Arcanine, Chansey, Hoppip, Rattata, Tauros, Eevee people, Chinchou, Vulpix, Crobat, Kyogre, Gorebyss, Zangoose, Mawile, Roselia, Loudred, Sceptile, Weedle, Crobat, Rattata, Yanma, Gyarados, Clamperl, Wartortle, Geodude, Gligar, Added: Lapras, Corsola, Kecleon, Wooper, Lugia, Lati@s, Rayquaza. 1.25 4/4/04 Fixed: Rapidash, Chikorita, Metang, Sentret, Snorlax, Pidgeot, Golbat, Golduck, Dragonite, Dragonair, Pikachu line, Glalie, Gorebyss, Taillow, Ninjask, Cradily, Exeggcute, Aron, Goldeen, Solrock, Clefairy line, Bellossom, Snorlax. Added: Lileep, Beldum, Weepinbell, Jirachi, Mantine, Corphish, Chinchou, Exeggutor, Ledian, Armaldo, Milotic, Ponyta, Rattata, Raticate. 1.10 3/22/04 Added Cubone, Vibrava, Exeggcute, and Pidgey line, thanks to mark cubillas. 1.00 3/21/04 Completed an entry for nearly all Pokemon names. Missing about 20 or so. =============================================================================== **************** *Table of Contents* **************** I. Introduction II. Tier 4 Names A.K.A., "Just Take This Noun and Adjective-Prefix and Combine" III. Tier 3 Names A.K.A., "The Designers Could've Done Better." IV. Tier 2 Names A.K.A., "Hey, That’s Pretty Witty!" V. Tier 1 Names A.K.A., "Whoa, Slow Down, I Don’t Speak Latin!" VI. Finishing Up A. Credits B. Contact Info C. Copyrights This guide may be not be reproduced under any circumstances except for personal, private use. It may not be placed on any web site or otherwise distributed publicly without advance written permission. Use of this guide on any other website or as a part of any public display is strictly prohibited, and a violation of copyright. Only GameFAQs and Neoseeker are permitted to host this guide. I. Introduction Greetings! This is my first FAQ ever so stay with me. First and foremost, this guide will not aid you in game-play in anyway; it is strictly for the sake of amusement and knowledge. Throughout the guide I will go through the English name of each and every one of the 386 Pokemon, explaining its meaning, origin, and relevance. Ever wonder for what discernable reason was "Ludicolo" or "Crobat," named just so? I know I did, and the answer can be found here. Of course, there are those Pokemon whose names need no explanation (Sandshrew comes to mind) unless the reader's first language is not English. However, I am not going to waste yours (and my) time by giving the definition of "torch" to explain why Torchic is a fire type. My real intention in writing this is for the explanation of the thoughtful, creative, and surprisingly intellectual names of some Pokemon, and their evaluation, which is based on their thoughtfulness, creativity, and intellectuality. Creative or not, I also have next to each name, in parentheses, what words or parts of words make each name. Since I have the Pokemon grouped by name quality (and alphabetically), and not number, if there is a certain name you simply must know about quickly, just press control + F and search for it. Remember, the real interesting stuff will be found within the explanations of the higher quality names. On a side note, this guide is filed in the Fire Red/Leaf Green FAQs, because they are the first games to have the greatest potential for one to have all 386 Pokemon in them. =============================================================================== -------------------- - II. Tier 4 Names - -------------------- Okay, this is essentially a lesson in some commonly used words of the English language, and to tell you the truth it is a sort of boring one. So, read on, and marvel at these names, most of which are really just compound words, or just go and look at the infinitely more exciting, Tier 3,2, and 1 names. Caterpie- (caterpillar) Caterpie is a caterpillar. Woo-hoo. Clamperl- (clam-pearl) Aside from the fact that it is usually oysters which bear pearls, there is really nothing mysterious about the name of this little clam, whose face appears to be on its own pearl. You can also find "clamp" in Clamperl's name. Drowzee- (drowzy) There wasn't much going on when they named this tapir-like Pokemon. It was probably because he was one of the firsts to use "Hypnosis," so it was felt that his name had to work with that. Flygon- (flying-dragon) It seems odd that while most dragon-types are also flying, the one with "fly" in its name is not (Flygon is dragon/ground). It does have "Levitate" though. "Flygon" could also be a mutation of "dragonfly," which Vibrava does look like. Goldeen- (goldfish) Goldeen is a goldfish Pokemon, plain and simple. "Een" doesn't seem to mean anything (it could be "queen," you know: Queen and seaKING). Grimer- (grime) Not much to figure out here. Grimer is a little dirty sludge ball which could easily be compared to grime, except that the stuff in your bathtub isn't purple, I hope. Grumpig- (grumpy-pig) Grumpig doesn't seem like an especially grumpy pig, but that's the only explanation. Hoothoot- (hoot-hoot) Hoothoot is probably the only Pokemon that says what its real-life counterpart would actually say. For this reason, I guess "Hoothoot" makes more sense than naming it "Owly," (hey, it could happen). Horsea- (horse-sea, seahorse) Can't get much lower than this. Someone with no former knowledge of Pokemon could probably draw a pretty accurate picture of Horsea based solely on its name, which is saying something. Huntail- (hunt-tail) This gulper eel Pokemon gets its simple name from the fact that it hunts for prey using its fish-shaped tail as a lure. Hypno- (hypnosis) Like Drowzee, Hypno also gets his name from the fact that hypnosis is his trademark, and because he carries a pendulum used to hypnotize. Kakuna- (cocoon) Kakuna fits the definition of a cocoon just right. Koffing- (coughing) Hey, that's the way I used to spell coughing when I was in kindergarten! Anyway, Koffing is known for its many poisonous-gas attacks, including smokescreen, smog, and poison gas, which would tend to make someone cough. Krabby- (crab, possibly crabby) Whether Krabby the crab's name was meant to portray him as a grumpy fellow is unknown, but don't most crabs seem just a bit crabby? Lanturn- (lantern) Lanturn does indeed produce light from its bulbous head appendages. Isn't it funny how a soft e or u can be pronounced the exact same way? Ledian/Ledyba- (ladybug) Ledyba and Ledian are ladybugs. That's it. Lickitung- (lick-tongue) Wow. If I didn't know any better, I'd say that this guy would lick things, with his tongue. What's really weird is that he didn't even learn "lick" until the Yellow Version. Loudred- (loud-dread) Loudred is clearly a loud guy, (as seen everywhere; they really like showing him on the anime) and I suppose that he might be someone to "dread." Luvdisc- (love-disk) The name says it all. It's a little flat fish in the shape of a heart. How cute. Though, by definition, a disc/disk is perfectly round. Magmar- (magma) Magmar is all about the fire, and can heal itself by dipping wounded parts into liquid hot magma. Mankey- (mad-monkey) Just a simple play on "monkey," (who's always hopping mad) It's surprising that something about a pig was not inserted into either Mankey or Primeape's name. Meowth- (meow-/mouth) "Meow" is the noise that a cat, like Meowth, would make. That's all there is to it (unless you think there's something to Meowth talking on the anime, you know, with his MOUTH)(?). Mewtwo- (mew-two, the second Mew) Ahh, good old Mewtwo. With the exception of Porygon 2, this is just about the least creative name you can find. As shown in the 1st Pokemon Movie, Mewtwo was scientifically created from the DNA of Mew, so, unsurprisingly, the scientists named him Mewtwo. (Mew can be found in the Tier 1 section). Mr. Mime- (mister-mime) He's a mime all right, with the painted face, white-glove-hands and the whole barrier thing. Just be glad they didn't decide to use formal titles with any other Pokemon. Muk- (muck) This big slime-ball practically personifies the word "muck," and ties with Mew for the shortest name. Murkrow- (murk-crow) Murkrow is obviously a crow, and a dark, or "murky" type crow at that. Ninetales- (nine-tales) Okay, this Pokemon has nine tales. Sure. Unlike its name, Ninetales background is interesting. It's based on the Kitsune, a Japanese fox spirit which can shape-shift and live to very old ages. Persian- (Persian) Probably the only Pokemon that has the same name as its real life doppelganger. Persian the cat shares a few similarities with Persian cats, among which is the reputation for being fancy and spoiled. (This guy might've gone in Tier 3, but the name was just too simple). Pineco- (pinecone) Not surprisingly, Pineco is a pinecone Pokemon (but then why isn't it a grass type instead of bug?) that is only found by head-butting trees in Johto. Ponyta- (pony-tail) Heh, heh, I didn't even notice that this guy was missing. Anyway, Ponyta is clearly a pony, with an emphasis on its flaming tail. Porygon 2- ([the] second Porygon) Again with the scientists and their naming of creatures using numbers. Not much to say here, but I guess it makes sense considering that trading Porygon with an upgrade yields a Porygon 2 (but wouldn't an UPGRADE make something like a Megaporygon?) At least with Mewtwo they merged the number with the name and it didn't sound that bad. (Porygon is a different story and can be found in the Tier 2 section). Psyduck- (psychic-duck) Psyduck is a duck, with psychic powers. That's it. Qwilfish- (quill-fish) Your standard puffer fish, poison and all, covered in spines, or quills. Roselia- (rose-azalea) It's a grass-type with roses for hands, so combining "rose" and "azalea" (a flowering bush and the hub town of the G/S games) makes sense. Sandshrew- (sand-shrew) How much effort did it take to come up with this dignified title? He's a ground type who looks (sorta) like a shrew. I get it. Seedot- (seed) Yup, Seedot is a seed (an acorn, actually) all right. This seems overly simple, unless I'm missing something very obvious with the "dot" part. Oh right, he's round (what, like a dot?). Seel- (seal) Wow. Well, it would seem that Seel lives up to its name by doing an amazing impression of a seal (albeit one with a horn on its head). Shellder- (shell) Shellder is clearly supposed to be a clam-like creature, with the traditional "shell." I doubt that "shelter" is also hidden in this name, though it very well could be. Steelix- (steel-onix) They didn't put much effort into naming one of the first steel Pokemon by just putting "steel" in front of the unevolved Onix's suffix. Tentacool- (tentacle) There doesn't appear to be anything really "cool" about the jellyfish Pokemon, so I assume they just needed to tweak "tentacle" a bit. Trapinch- (trap-pinch) Ooh, ooh, I can make a sentence out of this one! "Trapinch will 'trap' its prey in its sand-'trap' and 'pinch' them with its large jaws." Pretty simple. Unown- (unknown) The Unown are a source of great mystery in the anime, third Pokemon movie, and Gold/Silver/Crystal games (that is until you come along and "solve" the mysteries), so removing some letters from the word "unknown" works just fine as a name. Wartortle- (war-turtle) Nothing exciting here. Okay, we get it, it's a turtle, who fights. Moving on. ("Tortle" could be a cross between turtle and tortoise). Weezing- (wheezing) Wheezing could be considered a more advanced cough, so it makes sense that Weezing is an evolved Koffing. Simple enough. Wingull- (wing-gull) Don't all gulls have wings? This little seagull is very well portrayed by its simple name. Wurmple- (worm) Wurmple is an elongated insect that is really more like a caterpillar than a worm. Besides, worms aren't even insects. =============================================================================== ..................... . III. Tier 3 Names . ..................... Most of the Pokes' names are still pretty obvious at this point, but we're starting to see some more advanced combos of prefix and suffix. In addition, in the cases where two words are combined to make a name, Tier 3 names are smoother and slightly less obvious than the elementary ones found above. Some of the starters make their appearances in this section. Bagon- (baby/bash-dragon) Bagon is the lowest evolution in the Salamence line, and is said to bash its head against rocks and the bottom of cliffs out of frustration over its inability to fly. Baltoy- (balance-toy) Baltoy is a little clay doll, which would have a hard time "balancing" on its single, pointy foot, if not for its psychic abilities. Beautifly- (beautiful-butterfly) This cute bug Pokemon is the more attractive of Wurmple's evolutions, and the Ruby/Sapphire equivalent of Butterfree. Beedrill- (bee-drill) Beedrill is a bee, with two drill-shaped (not really?) appendages on its front legs. Bellsprout- (bell-sprout) This little plant has a bulbous head appendage shaped like a bell. Blaziken- (blaze-chicken) The much loved/hated Blaziken continues the chicken theme of its line, and has fire which "blazes" from its wrists. Blissey- (bliss) Chansey will only evolve when its happiness can't go any higher, and it is said to bring eggs of happiness to sad people. Bonsley- (bonsai) Sudowoodo's pre-evolution looks very much like a miniature tree of the bonsai variation, popular in Japan. Nothing else to it. Butterfree- (butterfly-free) The butterfly Pokemon doesn't seem especially free, but whatever. Cacnea- (cactus-needle) I never liked to think that this was as simple as "needle," but there doesn't seem to be anything else it could be. Cacnea, is, of course, a cactus Pokemon. Camerupt- (camel-erupt) This camel-like creature appears to have 2 volcanoes, instead of humps, and learns its (and Groudon's) trademark move, Eruption, at level 45. Cascoon- (cask/casing-cocoon) Like its "cousin" Silcoon, Cascoon is a cocoon. The "cas" could mean a number of things, but it probably is just there to show that Cascoon is encased, or closed-in. Castform- (forecast-form) Castform is all about the weather, so involving "forecast" in its name works well. In addition, it changes "form" when the weather changes. Chansey- (chance[chancy]) Chansey is rare in all versions, so the "chance" of finding and catching one easily is pretty "chancy." Charizard- (char-lizard) Everyone's favorite fire-flyer finishes up the Charmander line, using the sensible "lizard" ending. Charmander- (char-salamander) Charmander's name makes perfect sense. He's a little lizard who breathes fire. Charmeleon- (char-chameleon) The second of the fire lizards actually has nothing to do with the traits commonly associated with a Chameleon, so I guess they just needed another reptile suffix to use. Chimecho- (chime-echo) A member of the "wind chime" species, Chimecho is described as "echoing" its cries inside its body. Seeing as how the second part is "echo," I guess that Chimecho should really be pronounced "Chime-co," but don't spell it that way, or risk being flamed. Claydol- (clay-doll/idol) A very simple name, Claydol tells you that this Pokemon is a doll, made out of clay and brought to life (as described in the Pokedex). Because it was originally just a lifeless statue, it could also have been an "idol." Cubone- (club-bone) The mysterious Cubone uses a bone as a weapon, in a club- like fashion. Combusken- (combustion-chicken) Looking the most like a chicken of all in the Torchic line, Combusken also obviously has fire attacks, yielding the "combustion" part of the name. Corphish- (coral-crawfish) Corphish is clearly a crawfish, and it lives near the sea (i.e. where there's coral). It could also be "corps," because Corphish is like a soldier of the sea. Corsola- (coral-sol/soul/sole) You wouldn't believe how many people have told me that the "cor" is for coral. REALLY? ARE YOU SURE? Anyway, for the "sola," take your pick. They only come out in the daytime (in G/S) when it's sunny (sol); Corsola could represent the living "soul" of all coral; or, it's a "sole" piece of coral (one). Geez. Croconaw- (crocodile-gnaw) Croconaw's name represents both of themes going on in its line, the one about crocodiles and alligators (blue ones at that), and the one about having very strong jaws and resilient teeth. Cyndaquil- (cinder-quill) Cyndaquil is a fire type, and the orientation of its flames on its back sort of looks like the "quills" of a porcupine. Delcatty- (delicate-cat) Delcatty certainly looks delicate enough, and is of the "prim" species, however, it's actually rather hardy. Delibird- (delivery-bird) With its large sack (on its back, you pervs), Delibird is just that- a delivery bird. Diglett- (dig-let) "Dig" is clearly because Diglett's specialty is digging, and "let" is a suffix indicating smallness (piglet, booklet). Ditto- (ditto/" " ") Ditto the transforming blob's simple name obviously comes from the phrase "ditto," meaning, "what he said," or when used in writing, the marks that indicate repeating or copying what is shown above. Dodrio/Doduo- (dodo-trio/duo) These names are probably originated from the "dodo," a sort of dumb, flightless bird that went extinct when hungry sailors approached them and they didn't flee, after years of no human contact. If you ask me, these bird Pokemon seem to have more in common with some other flightless birds, the ostrich and emu. Of course, the duo and trio endings refer to the 2 and 3 heads, respectively. Dragonair- (dragon-air/debonair) One thing that has continually been emphasized about Dragonair is its ability to alter the "air" around it and change the weather. The "air" could also indicate "debonair," or "elegant," which is a good adjective for this dragon. Dragonite- (dragon-knight/draconite) I suppose that Dragonite does have some "knightly" qualities, such as being loyal, brave, and virtuous. Draconite is a "mythical stone of dragons," so, yeah. Dratini- (dragon-teeny/tiny) Although Dratini is not really small at all, (look at its size compared to your own in the Ru/Sa Pokedex), it was the smallest of the first three original Red/Blue dragons. Dugtrio- (dug-trio) For some reason, they decided to use the past tense of dig for Dugtrio, and the trio part is because it is three (3) Digletts. Duskull- (dusk-skull) This little ghost has a prominent skull mask on its face, complete with cross-bones on its back. About "dusk," I guess that was included because dusk is an eerie part of the day, when spirits might start coming out. Dustox- (dust-toxic) The counterpart to Red/Blue's Venomoth, this moth continues the tradition of being able to scatter toxic dust from its wings, but surprisingly learns none of the "powder" and "spore" attacks (it does learn toxic though, not betraying its own name). Electabuzz- (electric-buzz) I suppose that a "buzzing" sound could be produced from the electric current running through Electabuzz's body and its antennae. Electrike- (electric-strike) This little dog-like thing would certainly use electric strikes as a form of attack, considering its type. Electrode- (electrode/electric-explode) An electrode is an actual noun: "a device through which electrical current passes." Makes sense for the electrical, upside-down Pokeball Pokemon. Then there's always the thing about Voltorb and Electrode "exploding." Elekid- (electric-kid) Elekid is the pre-evolution and baby form of Electabuzz, so "kid" makes a good suffix. Exploud- (explode-loud) This guy's theme is making really loud noises. So giving it such a name and the attack "Hypervoice" makes all the sense in the world. Fearow- (fear-sparrow) I guess that this Pokemon might strike fear into some others. After evolving from Spearow, though, Fearow really doesn't look like a sparrow anymore. Feebas- (feeble-bass) The much sought after fish, Feebas, is valued for its rarity, not its quality, as shown by its tattered fins and derogatory name. Flareon- (flare-eon) Along with the "eon" suffix shared by the Eevee evolutions to show that evolution usually takes eons to occur, Flareon's name has "flare" to show it as a fire-type. Gastly- (gas-ghastly) Ghastly of course means, "dreadfully frightening or horrible." Very fitting for a ghost. The "gas" comes from the fact that Gastly and Haunter are made of gas, and therefore have no solid form, like ghosts. Glalie- (glacier-goalie) Having a name derived from "glacier" works well for a pure ice-type Pokemon. Although it sounds sort of corny, "goalie" could also be hidden in this name, because Glalie's ice covering looks like a hockey goalie's mask (sort of). Gloom- (gloomy) I guess Gloom looks gloomy enough, considering its sad, closed eyes, and dripping drool, (not to mention the awful stink that it emits). Granbull- (grand-bulldog) With its intimidating fangs, Granbull certainly looks "grand" enough. Graveler- (gravel) Another rock/ground-themed name for a rock/ground Pokemon. I guess that Graveler's rough and craggy skin could be compared to gravel. Gulpin- (gulp-in) With its mostly-stomach body, Gulpin will swallow things its own size, "gulping" them in whole. Haunter- (haunt) Naturally, this ghost Pokemon would tend to "haunt" people and places by appearing in its ghostly form. As in several cases, "er" in Haunter just means, "someone who haunts." Houndoom- (hound-doom) "Doom" sort of goes along with Houndoom's whole theme, being dark, having horns and a spiked tail. He really looks like some kind of devil-dog. Igglybuff/Jigglypuff/Wigglytuff- (iggly/jiggly/wiggly-buff/puff/tough) The "iggly" prefixes all work for this line of rubbery ball Pokemon, and "puff" goes with Jigglypuff just fine (as in "cream puff"), but Igglybuff doesn't seem that "buff" and Wigglytuff doesn't seem that tough, (except HP-wise). Of course, the "tuff" could refer to the "tuft" of hair that is had by all in this line. Illumise- (illumine) Illumise is said to lead swarms of Volbeats in "illuminating" the sky with patterns of lights. Jolteon- (jolt-eon) Eevee's electric evolution has "jolt" in its name to identify its type (electric jolt), and the eon ending found in all evolutions of Eevee. Kingdra- (king-dragon) Although one would probably think of Dragonite as the king of dragons, Kingdra is still very mighty itself. Lunatone- (luna-stone) The counterpart of Solrock, Lunatone is a crescent-moon shaped rock/psychic Pokemon. Luna clearly means "moon," and "tone" is a part of "stone". Machamp/Machoke/Machop- (macho-champion/choke/chop) The Machop line is known for being big and burly, like a "macho man." Concerning their respective suffixes, Machamp is the "champion" of all fighters, and chokes and chops are different fighting/martial arts moves. Magby- (magma-baby) Makes sense for the name of the only baby, egg-hatched, fire Pokemon. Magikarp- (magic-carp) There really isn't anything all that magical about this fish, unless you count the fact that evolves into the infinitely better Gyarados. Also, carps are considered good luck in Asia. Magnemite- (magnet-mite) This guy is a floating ball with an eye and two magnets that it uses to float above the ground with. The "mite," just means "a small creature." Or the whole name could just be a play on "magnetite." Manectric- (mane-electric) It would seem that many electric Pokemon actually have an indicator of their type somewhere in their name. The "mane" comes from the Pokedex entry about Manectric's mane becoming charged with electricity, or something like that. Marshtomp- (marsh-stomp) The Mudkip line is known for living in marshes (or swamps) so its not surprising to imagine this guy stomping around a marsh, which brings about the question, shouldn't it learn "stomp"? Meditite- (meditate) This guy's trademark move is meditate, and he is in the meditating position. The "ite" suffix doesn't mean anything. Metagross- (metal-gross) Ewww, he's so gross! Not really... Metagross is of course a steel-type, hence the metal, and the gross just means, "large, big, or bulky." Metapod- (metamorphosis-pod) The traditional example of metamorphosis from a caterpillar to cocoon (or pod) to butterfly validates this name as being quite fitting. Mightyena- (mighty-hyena) Being the evolved form of Poochyena, this mighty dog retains the "hyena" suffix of its pre-evolution. Miltank- (milk-tank) The female cow counterpart of the male Tauros, Miltank is famous for its "Moo-moo Milk" and "tank" just means "a large container for holding a liquid (milk)." Minun/Plusle- (minus/plus) These two go together, and so do their names. Plus and minus, of course, refer to positive and negative charges commonly associated with electricity, and electric Pokemon. Nosepass- (nose-compass) With its nose being a prominent feature, its no surprise that Nosepass' nose serves a purpose. That is, it always points North, just like a magnetic compass. Pelipper- (pelican-flipper) Although Pelipper is indeed a Pelican, the "lipper" part confused mean for a bit. I assume that it means "flipper" because a sea-bird would use its feet as flippers. Phanpy- (elephant) Phanpy is indeed an elephant. I don't think that "py" means anything significant. Piloswine- (pile-of-swine/pillow) The big-pig of Pokemon does sort of look like a big old "pile" of warthog (or a pillow, whatever). Pinsir- (pincer) Pinsir does indeed have a large pair of pincers on its head. There's nothing else to it. Plusle- see Minun Poochyena- (pooch-hyena) Aside from being a dog, Poochyena doesn't much look like a hyena, but they both share aggressive tendencies. Quilava- (quill-lava) Quilava keeps its "quill" name from Cyndaquil, and the "lava" is just another suffix to indicate being a fire-type. Rapidash- (rapid-ash/dash) Known for being one of the faster Pokemon, and actually shown to be on the anime, Rapidash lives up to its name. The "ash" is there because of that doofus trainer on the show...j/k; no, it's because Rapidash is a fire horse. Or it could be "dash" because it runs so much. Sandslash- (sand-slash) Following Sandshrew with the "sand" part denoting that it is a ground type, Sandslash's trademark move is "slash", which it performs with its sharp claws, hence its name. Scizor- (scissor) Scyther's blades turn into cutting claws when it evolves, making a scissor-associated name very fitting. Seaking- (sea-king) This vibrant orange evolution of the goldfish Pokemon could be considered the king of the sea, but I don't really get why. Seviper- (sever-viper) Ah, my personal favorite (Pokemon, not name). Seviper is surely a snake (viper), and the sever is referring to how Seviper might attack and cut something with its sword-tail. Sharpedo- ([sharp]-shark-torpedo) Sharpedo is clearly a shark, but its odd body shape also makes it look a bit like a torpedo. It was probably not intentional, but the "sharp" in Sharpedo could also come from its ability, rough skin. Shelgon- (shell-dragon) Probably the oddest-looking of the dragons, Shelgon is encased in a round shell where it is transforming into the mighty Salamence. Shroomish- (mushroom) Shroomish is clearly a mushroom, and the "ish" is just a suffix meaning "having the characteristics of." Shuppet- (shadow-puppet) I don't really see the resemblance of Shuppet to a puppet, but it does evolve into the "marionette" Pokemon, so whatever. Silcoon- (silk-cocoon) The seemingly less evil and menacing of the Ruby/Sapphire cocoon Pokemon, Silcoon is wrapped in pure white silk. Skitty- (skittish-kitty) Skitty is a cute little kitty, and an "excessively lively" one at that. Slaking- (slacking/slack-king) Slaking's name could just represent the verb, "slacking," or it could be seen as showing it to be the king of slacking-off. Slakoth- (slack-sloth) Slakoth personifies a sloth very well, with its rather slow nature and tendency to "slack off," which is also one of its attacks. Slowbro/Slowking/Slowpoke- (slow-bro/king/poke) The Slowpoke family is indeed the slowest of them all (stat-wise). Slowking is the highest evolution, with a kingly Shellder crown on its head. "Slowpoke" is an idiom used to describe someone who dawdles. I suspect that the "bro" has something to do with the brotherly relation between host and parasite, and the symbiotic life they live. Slugma- (slug-magma) This fire-slug is definitely made of magma, and not surprisingly, one of its abilities is "magma armor." Smeargle- (smear-beagle) Smeargle obviously "smears" things with its paintbrush tail, and its tongue and ears sort of make it look like a beagle, but not really. Smoochum- (smooch-chum) Smoochum's trademark is kissing everything to identify what various objects are. For this, Smoochum would appear to be very friendly, like a good friend (or chum). Sneasel- (sneaky-weasel) Just about any Pokemon that is a dark-type could be considered "sneaky." Sneasel doesn't look especially like a weasel, but whatever. Snorunt- (snow-runt) Snorunt is a small, shy, ice-type that hides away in deep, icy caves. "Runt" does not indicate that Snorunt is the "weakest in a litter of offspring," just that it is "a small animal." Solrock- (solar(sun)-rock) This Pokemon's appearance and types pretty much explain its name. It's a rock in the shape of a cartoonish sun, complete with the physical rays going out in all directions. Spearow- (spear-sparrow) Spearow the tiny bird Pokemon does have a rather sharp and intimidating beak which it might use to "spear" things with. Spoink- (spring-oink) This little pig travels and keeps its heart beating by using the spring-like appendage on its underside, and little pigs tend to go "oink," so there you go. Squirtle- (squirt-turtle) This "tiny turtle" species "squirts" water as its main form of attack. It's funny how when you separate the words in some names, they almost sound like they could be Mega Man X bosses. Stantler- (stag-antler) This Pokemon could be compared to a male deer, complete with an impressive set of antlers, except that these ones give Stantler psychic powers. But shouldn't female Stantlers have much smaller antlers? Starmie/Staryu- (star-me/you) These guys have to go together for their rather (un)funny pun to work. Oh yeah, and they're shaped like stars. Sunflora- (sun-flora) Pretty clear. In case you have no education whatsoever, flora is a scientific word for "plant," as in "flora and fauna." The sunflower Pokemon is perfectly described by its name. Sunkern- (sun-kernel) This little helicoptering seed looks a bit like a kernel of corn (although there are kernels of other plants too) and it evolves into a SUNflower with the use of a SUNstone. Swalot- (swallow-a-lot) Swalot is known for its ability to swallow prey whole, into its body, which is mostly stomach. Nothing more to it. Swellow- ([swell]-swallow) Swellow does indeed look like a swallow (just like its unevolved form, Taillow). Also, (this may be a little far-fetched), but perhaps they also intended for Swellow to be a "swelled" version of Taillow, with a larger frame and possibly a larger ego. Taillow- (tail-swallow) Taillow greatly resembles a swallow, with its similar tail and wing type. I don't think there's anything more to this little bird, but I can't really figure out why there is an emphasis on its "tail;" I guess its just because swallows are famous for their forked tails. Tangela- (tangle) Tangela's signature attacks are to constrict and bind, or "tangle" up its enemy in its vines. There really isn't anything "gel-like" about Tangela. Tentacruel- (tentacle-cruel) Tentacruel sure does have a lot of tentacles, and is apparently cruel, earning the nickname "gangster of the sea," in the Pokedex. Torchic- (torch-chick) Torchic is a small bird that happens to be of the fire type. Torkoal- (tortoise-coal) This large turtle (okay, tortoise) is the fire type counterpart to Squirtle's water type line. The Pokedex goes on and on about how it powers itself with coal that it collects. Totodile- (tot-crocodile) The G/S/C water starter starts off its theme of crocodiles and alligators. The "tot" is because it is the lowest evolution in its line. Typhlosion- (typhoon-explosion) Typhlosion's fiery spirit could be considered like a "violent storm," and the "explosion" goes along with his fire theme. Vaporeon- (vapor-eon) Vaporeon is the water evolution of Eevee, so it has "vapor" as in "water vapor" and the traditional "eon" suffix used to identify Eevee evolutions. Venomoth- (venom-moth) Like Dustox, Venomoth the poison moth has poisonous wing scales from which it shakes venomous powders. Venonat- (venom-gnat) Venonat the fluff-ball poison bug is a bit big to be a gnat, but we get the picture. Vibrava- (vibrate) This guy is all about "vibrating" its wings to produce high- frequency sound-waves. That's all there is to it. Vigoroth- (vigor-sloth) The odd one out of the Slakoth line, Vigoroth has energy to spare, and acts vigorously, betraying its slothy background. Volbeat- (volt-beetle) This guy is essentially a firefly- a beetle that lights up its tail end (though not necessarily with "volts" of electricity). Voltorb- (volt-orb) An electrically charged ball is just what Voltorb is. Wailord/Wailmer- (whale-lord/mer) The "whale" is obvious, as Wailmer/lord are clearly whales, and "lord" simply denotes Wailord as being the "lord" of all whales (or all Pokemon, considering its size). "Mer" is either a meaningless suffix, or, it could mean "mer" ("the sea" in French), but I doubt it. Weedle- (weevil-needle/weedle) A weevil is a little disgusting insect that gets into really old food, and the "needle" is describing the poison needles, or horns, on Weedle's head and tail. Or, the whole name just means "weedle" which is an actual insect larva thing from Africa. Whismur- (whisper-murmur) I guess they were really trying to emphasize the fact that Whismur is small and quiet. (Although it is known to cry very loudly when agitated). Wigglytuff- see Igglybuff Zigzagoon- (zigzag-raccoon) This little "masked" creature has fur in zigzagging bands, sort of like the bands found on a raccoon's tail. Zubat- (zoom-bat) I'm still not positive on this one. Zubat is clearly a bat, and I guess it might go "zoom" as it flies. =============================================================================== ++++++++++++++++++ +IV. Tier 2 Names+ ++++++++++++++++++ Now we're getting somewhere! Much less obvious word fragments make their appearances in these names, and they therefore required a greater amount of knowledge and/or research to figure out. Aerodactyl- (aero-dactylous) This Pokemon which must be resurected from a fossil has a name with parts meaning "air," and "having fingers," which both describe the flying, clawed, and dinosaur-like Aerodactyl. Dactyl could also refer to the suffix used with flying dinosaurs such as "Pterodactyl." Aggron- (aggressive-iron) Aggron the steel-type (get it, iron/steel) is said to be very aggressive, claiming a whole mountain as its territory. Aipom- (ape-palm) I would be inclined to say that Aipom is in fact a monkey, and not an ape, seeing as how it has a long tail, which coincidentally, is the source for the other part of its name. The tail is shaped like a hand that is used to grab things. Altaria- (altitude/alto-aria) Said to have a beautiful voice, Altaria sings its heart out among the clouds, and has singing-associated words in its name. (Alto is a range of singers between soprano and tenor, and an aria is "an air or melody"). "Alt" could also mean "altitude," because Altaria lives very high up, in the clouds. Arcanine- (arcane/arson-canine) The big dog Pokemon apparently has a rather arcane(mysterious and secret) legacy, as seen in one of the early episodes in the anime when it is seen in a rock carving with the legendary birds. Canine, of course, refers to the dog aspect. Also, it's a fire dog, hence- arson. Armaldo- (armor-armadillo) Wasn't Armordillo a Beast War's Transformer? Anyway, Armaldo doesn't really look like an armadillo, but it is heavily armored, so we get the point. Aron- (armor-iron) The first of the popular steel/rock line is definitely associated with iron, and it just so happens to be covered in iron "armor." Azumarill/Azurill/Marill- (azure-marine-rill) These guys are all in a line of blue, aqua rabbits, and all the parts of their names portray them as such. Azure is a shade of blue, marine means, "of the water," and a rill is "a small river or brook." Banette- (bane-marionette) In the Pokedex, Banette is described as doll that was thrown away, and that evil forces (banes of humanity possibly) have been sealed in its mouth. The evil inside now uses the doll as puppet (in the "higher power controlling the pawn" sense). Bayleef- (bayleaf) A bayleaf is defined as "the dried leaf of the laurel plant, used in seasoning," going well with the whole "soothing and sweet aroma" that this grass Pokemon emits. Beldum- (dumb-bell) Beldum is a heavy piece of metal, just like a dumb-bell. Bellossom- (bella/bell-blossom) Bellossom is a beautiful (bella is Italian for beautiful) flower Pokemon with two pretty red blossoms on its head. It also has a "bell" shaped skirt. Blastoise- (blast-tortoise) What makes Blastoise more of a tortoise than a turtle, like its pre-evolutions? I don't know. Anyway, Blastoise's signature thing is its hydro cannons (which appear to be very mechanical) from which it "blasts" strong jets of water. Breloom- (umbrella-mushroom) Breloom's mushroom cap does form a bit of an umbrella over its head. I'm surprised that there's nothing in its name to indicate the addition of the fighting-type to this line of Pokemon. Bulbasaur/Ivysaur/Venusaur- (bulb/ivy/venus flytrap-[dino]saurian) The Bulbasaur family really does look a bit like they could be dinosaurs, but the intended meaning was probably "saurian," an adjective used to describe lizard-like creatures, and not dinosaurs specifically. The "bulb" would refer to the vegetation on Bulbasaur's back, and "ivy" and "venus flytrap" are just other plant-associated words. Cacturne- (cactus-nocturnal) Like its pre-evolved form, Cacturne is surely a cactus, and is also nocturnal, according to the Pokedex. The "turn" was hidden a lot better than the "noct" was in "Noctowl," if you ask me. Carvanha- (carve/carnivorous-piranha) Piranhas are "carnivorous" animals which have a tendency to "carve" things up with their sharp teeth, and Carvanha fits the bill exactly. Chikorita- (chicory-ita) The chicory is a good plant that makes for a good plant-based prefix for the G/S/C grass starter. Ita is a suffix indicating "littleness." Cloyster- (cloister-oyster) Although the word usually has religious connotations, in this case it means, "to seclude or shelter oneself," much like Cloyster does with its large bivalve shell. The oyster part is obvious. You also find "CLam" in the name. Cradily- (cradle/crag-lily) Like Lileep, Cradily is definitely a lily (possibly a sea lily). One suggestion given to me for "cra" that really made sense was "crag," which in this case means "a rough, broken, projecting piece of a rock;" besides being a lily, Cradily is also an ancient rocky Pokemon. "Cradle" would be because of the "cradling" support given to Cradily's massive head, by its anchored body and neck. Crawdaunt- (crawfish-daunt) This crustacean which really does look like a beefed-up crawfish is described as being "daunting," or intimidating to other Pokemon and humans alike. Deoxys- (deoxyribo-nucleic-acid) Said to be the DNA of a space virus that was mutated by a laser, Deoxys and its name represent the "D" of DNA. Dusclops- (dusk-cyclops) With its one intimidating eye, Dusclops is, by definition, a cyclops. The "dusk" just stuck from Duskull. Eevee- (evolution) Eevee is surely the "evolution Pokemon," with five different possible evolved forms. I don't think that there's more to it than that. (Get it: Eevee=EV ----> EVolution). Geodude- (geo-dude) The whole "dude" part shows Geodude as a creature, and the "geo" means "of or relating to the earth," which goes along with the rockiness of Geodude. Farfetch'd (far-fetched) I bet they thought they were being clever with this one. Far-fetched means "improbable, not naturally pertinent," which would apply to Farfetch'd and its makeshift weapon. Its unlikely that any other wild ducks would decide to pick up a stick to beat enemies with. Here's another explanation; there's a Japanese legend about a duck bringing leeks to people lost in the woods so they can eat. A far-fetched story indeed. Feraligatr- (feral-alligator) Like most starter lines, the Totodile one keeps the theme of a certain type of animal throughout it, in this case, alligators and crocodiles. "Feral" means "wild, savage, untamed," which the brutish Feraligatr seems to be. Flaafy- (fluffy-baa) Although Flaafy is currently shedding its wool, what's left is very fluffy. The double-a in the name is surely from "baa": the sound a sheep makes. Forretress- (turret-fortress) The fortress part is clear, (he's a steel shell that can seal shut), and so is the "turret" if you look at him. There are several protrusions around the edge of this Pokemon which are no doubt the "turrets" from which Forretress' trademark move, (no, not Rapid Spin) Spikes, are fired. Furret- (ferret) At first glance I thought this name had something to do with fur, but it doesn't. It's just a play on "ferret," which is the animal that Furret is probably modeled after. Gligar- (glide-gargoyle) Gligar "glides" through the air and looks like a "gargoyle." It all fits. (The entire name sounds a bit like "glider"). Golbat/Golduck- (gold-bat/duck) The "bat" and "duck" are the respective animal types of these Pokemon. As for the "gol," I don't know what everyone is smoking, but gol does not mean "blue" in Japanese. Maybe in another language, but not Japanese. Anyway, the only good suggestion I've received is that it means "gold," (meaning "great") as in when someone says, "Oh, that's gold!" These guys are surely a "great" bat and duck. Groudon- (ground-don) A common newbish mistake is to say "Groundon," which probably rides on the logic of Groundon being a ground type. As for "don," that just signifies Groudon as the "lord of the ground." Grovyle- (grove-reptile) Known for being an expert at navigating the forest, this lizard-like Pokemon might be expected to make its home in "a small wood or forested area," or a grove. Growlithe- (growl-lithe) Growlithe the puppy Pokemon would be expected to growl, and is also pretty lithe (limber, flexible, bending readily). Hitmonchan/Hitmonlee/Hitmontop- (hit-monster-Chan/Lee/top) These three fighters are surely "hit monsters." Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee are both famous Hollywood martial artists, and "top" refers to the movements of a toy top, which Hitmontop mimics in its attacks. Hoppip- (hop-pip) "Hop" is part of "hop, skip, and a jump," which is how this line of Pokemon travels, along with floating (in the breeze). A pip is a small seed, especially of fleshy fruit, and Hoppip is, of course, a grass-type. Houndour- (hound-dour) The G/S/C dark-type dog could surely be dour, or "sullen gloomy, severe or stern." Jumpluff- (jump-fluff/luff) "Jump" is part of "hop, skip, and a jump," which is how this line of Pokemon travels, along with floating (in the breeze). The "fluff" is from the dandelion fluff balls on Jumpluff's head. It could also be "luff," which has something to do with positioning sails so they catch the wind. Jynx- (jinx) I'll go ahead with the only explanations I ever received for why Jynx is a "jinx." And I quote from Feeple, "A jinx is a curse, usually to screw up your good fortune (or to reverse it). Since Jinx is a Psychic pokemon with the kiss attack, she ruins your pokemon's loyalty. Hence, "jinxing" your pokemon." Or it could be because of the status conditions that Jinx inflicts (freeze, sleep). I'm still not positive on this one... Kabuto/Kabutops- (kabuto) A common origami model, the kabuto is a helmet, and coincidentally, kabuto also means "helmet" in Japanese. Kabuto's round, hard shell could be seen as resembling a helmet. The "tops" doesn't seem to mean anything, but I suppose that it could tell you that Kabutops is the "top" evolution in his line. Kecleon- (keck/Jekyll-chameleon) Kecleon is clearly a chameleon with attacks like "Lick" and the ability "Color Change." Apparently, keck means "to show dislike," which many people probably did, when they beat the crap out of Kecleon for blocking their way in the game. It could be "Jekyll" as well because Kecleon changes types just like Dr. Jekyll changed personalities. Kingler- (king-fiddler) Although there is a type of crab called "king crab," Kingler more closely resembles a fiddler crab, with its single extra large claw. Lairon- (lair-iron) Like its family members, Lairon shares the "iron" suffix, and I suspect that "lair" just means, "an animal den." Not really that special. Lapras- (lap/la-prase/erase) Oh boy. Lap could be because of its extreme swimming abilities, or the musical note, because it "sings," and I'm informed that prase is a type of chalcedony, a gray or milky quartz, sort of like Lapras' shell. Also, Lapras are near extinction, (being erased). Larvitar/Pupitar/Tyranitar-(larva/pupa/tyran(osaurus)ny-monitor) Larvitar is clearly the "larva" stage, progressing to the pupa status (Pupitar) and finally evolving into the mighty Tyranitar, which rules over a whole mountain to make its nest, exercising tyrant-like authority like the mighty king of dinosaurs. The "itar" part is much less clear, but one explanation provided to me was that this line of Pokemon looks like "monitor" lizards (well, not Pupitar). Or it could be because of the "tar" that many prehistoric creatures became trapped and preserved in. Lileep-(lily-sleep/deep) Lileep is an ancient sea lily that has been "sleeping" as a fossil for millions of years. "Eep" could also be "deep," because as a sea lily, it would live deep in the ocean. Linoone- (line-raccoon) The once zigzag bands have turned into sleek lines running parallel with this Pokemon's body. The Pokedex entries also have a lot of information concerning how Linoone runs very fast, but only in perfectly straight lines, because curved ones confuse it. The raccoon part just stuck from Zigzagoon. Lombre- (lotus-hombre) Essentially, this name is "plant man," which is what Lombre is. He could be described as a humanoid creature with a lotus leaf on his head. ("Hombre" means "man," BTW). Lotad- (lotus-pad) Compared to a "lily pad," a lotus plant is very similar, forming large, flat, circular leaves that float on top of the water, just like Lotad's head-leaf. Magneton- (magneton) Seeing as how magneton is an actual word, and not just a pathetic play on "magnet," Magneton made it to the Tier 2 section. A magneton is a unit of magnetic movement. Whatever. We get the point; that the Magnemite line is associated with magnets. Mantine- (manta-tine/marine) Mantine is clearly a manta-ray, and the "ine" could either represent "marine" or "tine," (which means "a projecting point or tong," like the protrusions on Mantine's head). Mareep- (Mary/mare-sheep) Mareep the electric sheep has part of the name of the herder of nursery-rhyme fame in it. I find it odd that the "mar" has nothing to do with electricity, as the "eep" covers the sheep aspect, so it seems a bit redundant. Alternatively, I'm told that a mare is a sheep, but that brings up the same question. Marill- see Azumarill Marowak- (marrow-whack) The bone-filling marrow within its skull mask and bone club is probably long gone, and they must've just added "wak" to show that Marowak "whacks" things with its club, but the name still works. Masquerain- (masquerade) Masquerain's name comes from a word meaning "to represent oneself falsely," which it surely does with the eye patterns on its wings. Had Masquerain kept the ability of Surskit, Swift Swim, then I would venture to say that "rain" actually meant something, but it gets the ability Intimidate (which it does with its eye patterns), so I say that "rain" means nothing. Mawile- (maw-wile) Mawile uses its steel maw (the mouth of a voracious carnivore) to devour prey, once it has fooled them with its wile, (a trick used to ensnare) which is its cute and innocent face. The "ile" could also come from crocodile, because of the shape of Mawile's jaws. Medicham-(meditate-champion) Medicham's types are represented in its name, with "meditate" being the psychic aspect, and "champion" being the fighting one. Meganium- (mega-geranium) Meganium has a large pink flower-collar around its neck and is also said to give off fragrant aromas, just like the Geranium plant. "Mega" is just because Meganium is a big, fully evolved Pokemon. Metang- (metal-angstrom) Metang is surely metal, being a steel type, and an angstrom is a unit of length used to express the width of electromagnetic wavelengths. This is part of Metang's name because it is essentially two Beldum fused together "magnetically." Also going along with the magnetism is the fact that Metang is an anagram of "magnet." Mudkip- (mud-skip/kip/mudskipper) This one was actually sort of tricky. The "mud" is obviously because Mudkip and its line live in swampy, muddy areas, but the "kip" is a bit more mysterious. If it stands for "skip," as in "skipping across the mud," then this name really belongs in the Tier 3 section. However, there are about 6 definitions of kip, and 2 that make sense are: the hide of a young or small beast, and a male fish (especially salmon). Mudkip is definitely a small beast, and could easily be compared to a fish. As it turns out, a mudskipper is a real, fish-like animal which can travel on land. Nincada- (ninja-cicada) Nincada shares the prefix of its evolved form, and is a cicada because it starts out as a flightless bug in the ground, and becomes a winged insect after a hibernation period. Ninjask- (ninja-mask) Ninjask is named after warriors known for their stealth and speed, which it excels in. I guess that the "ask" could refer to "mask," because Ninjask's face sort of looks like a mask. Noctowl- (nocturnal-owl) Most owls tend to come out solely at night, and Noctowl is no exception. Numel- (numb-camel) A camel-look-alike member of the "numb" species who is also described as being very slow and dull-witted would warrant a name such as "Numel." Nuzleaf- (nuzzle-leaf) The "leaf" part is from the leaf on Nuzleaf's head, and the "nuzzle" should be associated with one of the definitions meaning, "to thrust with the nose," as opposed to, "to cuddle affectionately." Nuzleaf's nose is, of course, very prominent. Octillery- (octopus-artillery) The octopus Pokemon's name makes sense when you think of its signature move, Octazooka, coming of course from "octopus-bazooka." Oddish- (odd-radish) I bet if you'd find it odd to pull a radish from the ground and see that it was blue, and had eyes, feet, and a mouth. Onix- (onyx) Onix is comprised of many large stones that are described as becoming extremely hard over time, and onyx is a type of shiny black stone used in jewelry. It all fits. Paras- (parasite) This little bug is covered in mushrooms, which suck nutrients from it, in a parasitic fashion. Parasect- (parasite-insect) What makes Parasect any more of an insect than Paras? If anything, it's less of an insect, with the parasite mushroom having taken over the entire host's body. Pidgeot/Pidgeotto/Pidgey- (pidgeon-otto/jet) These birds are clearly pidgeons, and the "ot" and "otto" endings probably come from "Otto" (as in the Ottoman empire) meaning "the great." (Pidgeotto and Pidgeot are "great pidgeons). Considering how Pidgeot is pronounced, the "geot" could also be "jet," indicating that Pidgeot is a big, fast, flying thing. Politoed/Poliwag/Poliwhirl/Poliwrath- (poliwog-toad/toed/wag/whirl/wrath)- All in the Poliwag family share the "poli" prefix; a poliwog is another word for tadpole, (perhaps an indication in the Red/Blue days, that a Poliwag family-member would eventually become a frog). As for the suffixes, "toad" means that the creature evolved into a toad, after being a tadpole (and now has multiple toes); "wag" is either an altered "wog," or there to show that Poliwag has a tail which it can wag; "whirl" represents the "whorl" pattern on Poliwhirl's stomach; and "wrath" simply indicates that Poliwrath is an angry fighting type. Porygon- (polygon) Being a virtual Pokemon, Porygon's body is indeed composed of parts covered in "multi-sided shapes," like that of a character from an early attempt at a 3-D video game. Primeape- (prime-ape) Primeape is certainly the most important primate Pokemon, seeing as how it's the evolved form in the only ape line of Pokemon. However, the reason Primeape made the Tier 2 section is because its name could possibly have a double meaning, the other being a play on "primate," describing this ape/monkey-like Pokemon. Pupitar- see Larvitar Quagsire- (quagmire-sire) The literal translation of this name would be, "the lord or master of a bog or swamp," which is just what Quagsire is. Raticate/Rattata- (rat-eradicate/rat-a-tat/attack) These Pokemon are clearly rats, but the suffixes are a bit harder. Raticate has "eradicate" because people are always trying to eradicate (or exterminate) rats. Rattata could be a play on "rat-a-tat," which is the sound of knocking or rapping (on a door). Another suggestion that I received is that "rat-a-tat" is the sound of a machine or tommy gun, both of which are very fast (shooters), and Rattata is also fast. A third explanation would be that rats leave clothes in "tatters" when they chew on them. A final explanation (and most likely) would be "attack" because Rattata's name was originally "Rattatak," and it is indeed, a rat, that attacks. Relicanth- (relic-coelacanth) This ancient rock fish could certainly be considered an ancient artifact and living fossil, just like the real fish found off the South African coast. Rhydon/Rhyhorn- (rhino-don/horn) These guys are definitely rhinos, and "horn" is there to emphasize that. "Don", like in many other cases, just means "very important," or "lord." Sableye- (sable-eye) At first guess, you might think that "sable" is some kind of precious, white gemstone (what Sableye has for eyes, and the most prominent part of its body), however, it's not. Of the eight definitions I've found, I'm going with "very dark," considering Sableye's type (dark... duh). Salamence- (salamander-menace/immense) This dragon Pokemon doesn't seem menacing at all really; it's never described as being evil or destructive, although its ability is "Intimidate." It could also be "immense," although it really is one of the smaller dragons. Scyther- (scythe) The two long curving blades wielded by Scyther are perfect examples of scythes. The "er" part of the name is simply stating that Scyther is "someone who scythes." Sealeo- (sea/seal-lion) Complete with the common "Leo" which obviously means lion, Sealeo does look a lot like a sealion, albeit a cartoony one. And of course, he's also a seal. Sentret- (sentry/sentinel-ferret) Both of this guy's name interpretation mean some sort of guard who is on the alert, further defining Sentret as very watchful for danger, as stated in the Pokedex. He is also, of course, a ferret. Seadra- (sea-dragon) Certainly an improvement on Horsea, Seadra's name is actually a bit of foreshadowing from Red/Blue days, indicating that perhaps it would one day become a dragon type. (That's the only reason that it made the Tier 2 section). Shedinja- (shed-ninja) Shedinja doesn't retain the incredible speed had by Ninjask, but it does keep the "ninja" part in its name. The "shed" is there because Shedinja is the shed skin or shell of its pre-evolved form. Shiftry- (shifty-tree) Shiftry is a mysterious and ancient tree-Pokemon which is said to be very shifty, or "evasive and crafty." Shuckle- (shuck) "Shuck" means "to remove the husk or pod from," which is probably the way that Shuckle makes its patented "Berry Juice" from the traditional Berries (which restores 20 HP instead of 10, woo-hoo). Skarmory- (sky-armor) The "sky" part comes from the fact that Skarmory is a flying-type bird Pokemon, and the "armor" is because it is a steel-type too, and covered in metal armor. The "armory" might also refer to an armory, a place where weapons and armor are made, when you take into account the sword-like blades of Skarmory's wings. Skiploom- (skip-bloom/loom) "Skip" is part of "hop, skip, and a jump," which is how this line of Pokemon travels, along with floating (in the breeze). Skiploom is surprisingly, the only in this line of grass-types, to have a "blooming" flower on its head. Another common theme is the cotton (which reveals itself in Jumpluff), and a loom is a device used to spin cotton. Snorlax- (snore-[re]lax) Snorlax is known for sleeping a lot, and its "loose or unrestrictive" ideals which consist of eating and sleeping, not caring whose way it's blocking, account for the "lax" part of its name. It could also indicate "relax," which goes along the same lines. Snubbull- (snub-bulldog) This guy's face clearly makes him out to be a bulldog, and "snub" means, "to treat with disdain or contempt, esp. by ignoring." Just like the way Snubbull and its posh friends treated Ash's Pokemon in the short before the fist movie. Spheal- (sphere-seal) This guy's name is far more creative than Seel's. The "sphere" part clearly comes from Spheal's very round shape. Spinarak- (spin-arachnid) Both parts of Spinarak the spider's name have to do with spiders. Spiders are known for "spinning" webs, and are more scientifically referred to as "arachnids." Spinda- (spin-panda) Spinda's markings may vary on its face, but the body ones are always the same, and resemble those on a panda bear. The "spin" comes from Spinda's signature move, Teeter Dance, and the spirals on its eyes and ears. Surskit- (surface-skit) Surskit greatly resembles a water bug, which is known for its ability to "skit" across the water's "surface" using its light weight and oil-tipped feet. (Remember the green insect enemies in Mario 64's Wet-Dry World level?) Swablu- (swab-blue) Swablu the blue bird has wings of cotton, bringing to mind a "cotton-swab." Swampert- (swamp-expert) The swamp/marsh/mud theme has stuck, no pun intended, throughout the Mudkip line. Being the highest evolution, Swampert is definitely an "expert" at swamps. Swinub- (swine-nub) I guess that the "nub" is referring to this little pig's nub of a nose. A swine is, of course, a pig. Tauros- (toro/Taurus) It's easy to see why they would give this Pokemon the name Tauros, once you realize that toro is Spanish for bull, or that the constellation Taurus is also a bull. Treecko- (tree-gecko) Treecko is reported to be great at scaling trees with its suction-cupped feet, just like a gecko. Tyranitar- see Larvitar Tyrogue- (tyke-rogue) Tyrogue is surely the "tyke" of fighting Pokemon, being the baby of the Hitmons. Rogue just means "a playful creature." Victreebel- (vicious-tree-bell) "Tree" indicates that Victreebel is a grass-type, and "bell" is present in all of the Bellsprout line. "Vicious" is because, well, Victreebel is vicious, as seen when it consistently attacks James of Team Rocket on the anime. Vileplume- (vile-plume) Like Gloom, Vileplume has a disgusting (or vile) odor coming from its flowery head. "Plume" indicates a type of flower, such as the Brazilian Plume (a tropical plant with large blossoms). Walrein- (walrus-reign) Complete with flippers and some imposing tusks, Walrein the walrus could be considered a "dominating power or influence," at least among Pokemon. Weepinbell- (weeping-bell) Weepinbell does look sad, (and its shaped like a bell). The "weeping" could also indicate that it's a plant, as in "weeping fig," or "weeping willow," (which has bell-shaped blossoms). Whiscash- (whisker-catfish) Whiscash does indeed have two long, prominent whiskers, and also looks a lot like a catfish. I could be wrong on this (cat+ fish = cash), but I doubt it. =============================================================================== ***************** *V. Tier 1 Names* ***************** Here we go! These names have more subliminal meanings, convoluted word-fragments, and even Latin, French, and Japanese roots then you can shake a stick at! In addition, I have also included in this section, the Pokemon names that have some clever play on words, even if they aren't particularly "intellectual." Abra/Kadabra/Alakazam- (abracadabra-alakazam!) These guys (who are all in the same evolutionary line), when put together, form a set of "magic" words, going along with their type (psychic). Actually, alakazam is not found in the dictionary along with its counterparts, but the phrase is familiar enough that it is a sure thing that they all go together. Absol- (absence-sol/absolute) One of the few pure dark-types, Absol would be expected to prefer places without much sunlight. An alternate meaning would be "absolute," ("free from any imperfection or lack; complete; whole,"). Absol's ying-yang resemblance plays on this, representing light and dark, etc. (opposites), which come together to make an "absolute" creature. Ampharos- (amp-Pharos/amphora) "Amp" clearly means "ampere" (also known as plain "amp") which is an SI unit of measuring electricity (Ampharos is an electric type). The "Pharos" part required more research. Apparently, Pharos is a peninsula in Northern Egypt, upon which sits an ancient lighthouse of the same name. As described in the Pokedex and seen in the anime, Ampharos commonly uses its tail light for a lighthouse-like effect; helping lost ships at sea. Alternatively, an amphora is a Greek vase shaped a lot like Ampharos' oblong body. Anorith- (anamalocaris-rith) I'll just go ahead and improvise with Mega Cell's explanation for Anorith. I'm assuming that the anamalocaris was some kind of ancient brine shrimp, and from what I'm told, rith is Greek for stone, making Anorith a fossilized shrimp/bug thing, which is just what it is. Arbok- (arboc/cobra) Going along with the "backwards" trick of its pre-evolved form Ekans, Arbok the hooded snake's real life animal equivalent is found by reversing the letter order of its name. Ariados- (Ariadne-dos) Ariadne is a character found in Greek mythology, who helped Theseus to conquer the Minotaur and its labyrinth, by giving him a ball of string to leave his trail behind him. Ariados is a spider, who can produce silk string, and it is the second in its evolution line, hence the Spanish "number two"- dos. Articuno- (arctic-uno) Being the legendary ice bird, "artic," complete with its common spelling mistake, is not so amazingly clever, but the Spanish numbers which were cleverly slipped into the birds names are. The "uno" could denote that Articuno is the first legendary bird you are supposed to catch. Barboach- (barb-loach) Both a barb and a loach are types of fish (remember the Hylian loach from LoZ: Oot?), as is Barboach. Barb could also refer to this Pokemon's beard or "sharp pointed whiskers" (both of which are other roots/definitions of "barb"). Celebi- (celestial/celandine-being) This grass-type legendary could have a few different meanings to its name. "Celestial" would be because it is "pertaining to the spiritual, invisible, or heavenly," and "celandine" is "an Old World plant." It could be "celery" but that's a bit too corny. (A Pokemon so rare, that the only way of obtaining it without cheating is to get it from Nintendo, would surely be considered "heavenly" to Pokemon fanboys). Chinchou- (Chouchin) Apparently, there's a town in China made famous by its paper laterns(called chouchins). Of course, Chinchou has 2 little lights, and evolves into "Lanturn." Clefable/Clefairy/Cleffa- (cle/clef-fable/fairy) This was a toughie. The fable (legendary, mystical) and fairy (a cute little magical creature) made sense, and "fa" just seems like a meaningless suffix, but "cle" gave me trouble. I've come to believe that it refers to the French word for "key," (after adding an accent over the e in "cle") and in this case symbolizes the fact that the Clefairy line is linked to outer-space, and may be the "key," or secret to all Pokemon on Earth, as brought up in the anime. "Clef" could also be "clef" because this line of Pokemon knows the move "sing," (but isn't Jigglypuff more known for singing than Clefairy). If this is the case, the "fa" in Cleffa could be the musical note, "fa," (also known as F natural). Crobat- (crony/cross-bat) While the "bat" part is obvious, "cro" had me stumped, until I looked for words with "cro" in the dictionary. I've settled on "crony" seeing as how that is defined as "a close friend or companion," which fits the bill for Crobat exactly, seeing as how it is one of the few Pokemon that will only evolve after a loving relationship is established. If you want a less amazing explanation, just see how Crobat's body is "cross"- shaped. For an out-of-the-box explanation, we can take the Japanese name, "Kurobatto," see how "Kuro" could become "Cro," and realize that "Kuro" means black. But wait, Crobat's purple, right? Dewgong- (dew-dugong) This evolved seal's name compares it to a dugong, more commonly known as a manatee. I don't really see the similarity, but at least they are both aquatic mammals. The "dew" just shows it to be a water/ice Pokemon. Donphan- (don/dont-mastodon-elephant) Donphan is certainly an elephant, although a small one, but the "don" provides more of a mystery. It could mean "don" (someone of great importance: "the most important elephant"); dont/dent, a root meaning "teeth," such as Donphan's tusks, which are very prominent; or "mastodon," a prehistoric elephant. Dunsparce- (dun-sparse) Quite a tricky one. "Sparse" (rare, thinly distributed) makes perfect sense, considering the rarity of Dunsparce, only appearing during swarming times. "Dun" means "grayish yellow," and "dark and gloomy," both of which describe Dunsparce's appearance (grayish-yellow) and habitat (caves), respectively. Entei- (enten) Enten is Japanese for what? Very hot weather, of course, going perfectly with the legendary dog of fire. *Or, "en" means "fire" and "tei" means "emperor."* Espeon- (ESP-eon) ESP stands for "extra-sensory-perception," somewhat of a sixth sense had by people who claim to be psychics. Espeon is indeed a psychic type, so that works perfectly. Once again, the "eon" ending just indicates that it evolves from Eevee and has the whole evolution thing going on. Exeggcute/Exeggutor- (ex-egg-cute/execute/executor) I'll just go ahead and put mark cubillas' explanation: "Exeggcute- Ex(former or fake), egg, cute(ingenious) Ex- it looks like an egg, but it's actually a seed/seeds (you can tell since it's a grass type) Egg- it looks like an egg.... cute- if you look in a dictionary or thesaurus it has three meanings, and has ingenious meaning smart(maybe that's why it's a psychic type). Now I'm very sure of this!" Naturally, both names also clearly represent "execute" and "executor," because the evolved form's coconut heads occasionally fall off to become Exeggcute. Gardevoir- ([re]garde-voir) Old Gardi's 100% French. The roots mean, "a guard," and, "to see," respectively. Psychics are known for their abilities to "see" the unseen (or the future) and Gardevoir is said to protect its trainer from any threat with its powers, like a guard. The "garde" could also be from "regarde," which further emphasizes the "looking" and "seeing" that psychics do. Gengar- (doppelganger) A doppelganger is described as "a ghostly counterpart of a person," paralleling the way that Gengar will pretend to be your shadow until you become very frightened by it. Girafarig- (giraffe/effarig) Yet another clever play on words, Girafarig is a perfect palindrome, that is, the same spelled forwards or backwards. Considering that Girafarig has a "head" at each end of its body, it's a fine name. Golem- (golem) Castlevania fans should recognize this name... Anyway, a golem is a figure in the shape of humanoid, modeled from clay or rock, particularly in Jewish folklore. The large rock Pokemon doesn't really look human, but we get the point. Gorebyss- (gore-abyss) The trick with this guy is not identifying the parts in the name, but explaining them. By reading the Pokedex entries for Gorebyss, one can find out that it can survive intense water pressure, and can therefore go far down into a deep ocean abyss. It also says that it will stab (or gore) its prey with its thin mouth and suck out the nutrients. (Chibi Soma, I think it was you who dismissed the idea of using public knowledge to make this guide, stating a stereotypic example like "LOL, Gorebyss, that's GORE and ABYSS, hah, hah, hah!" However, this seems to be the only explanation, unless someone provides a better one). Gorebyss could also be a play on "gorgeous" because it is the prettier of Clamperl's two evolutions. The whole name could also be a play on porpoise. Gyarados- (gyakusatu/gyakkyo-dos) Those two Japanese words mean "massacre, slaughter," and "hardship, adversity," respectively, both pertaining to the violent Gyarados and the trouble it has gone through (as a pathetic Magikarp). Like with Ariados, the "dos" just shows that it is the second (Spanish for two) in its evolution line. Just a fun fact: the giant fish boss in LoZ: MM was called Gyorg, (notice the "GY"). Hariyama- (hariau/haritaosu-yamamori/yama) Hariau and haritaosu mean "to compete with" and "to knock down," respectively. Both make sense with the fighter, Hariyama. Yama is less clear. I suspect that it is "yamamori," meaning abundant or heaping, like the muscles of Hariyama's body, or yama, meaning mountain. *Hariyama is also a rank in sumo wrestling.* Heracross- (Heracles-cross/claws) Heracross looks enough like a Hercules (or Heracles) beetle for that to be obvious enough, but the "cross" presents more of a puzzle. It could just signify the horn on its head, which could be considered to be cross-shaped, or it could come from the Japanese name, "Heraclaws," which, with the whole Japanese indistinguishability between l and r, lead to "Heracross." Not that Heracross' claws are really that prominent. Ho-oh- (Houou) Ho-oh is a misspelling of "Houou," which is a mythical Chinese phoenix. Ho-oh is indeed, a phoenix. Jirachi- (jirachi) It all makes sense when you realize that the wish Pokemon's name is "wish" in Russian (thanks to Roahm Mythril). Kadabra- see Abra Kangaskhan- (kangaroo-Ghengis Khan) Kangaskhan is clearly kangaroo-like, carrying its baby in a pouch (like all marsupials). What does it have to do with the Mongol conqueror though? I suspect that the plating/ridges on Kangaskhan's body could resemble the armor of a warrior like Ghengis Khan. Kirlia- (Kirlian photography) As strange as it sounds, Kirlian photography is probably the root of Kirlia's name. Created by scientists Seymon D. and Valentina K. Kirlian, this kind of picture-taking reveals unseen auras of supposed energy around its subject. Other scientists claim that the aura is a fake, created by electromagnetic technology. What does this have to do with Kirlia? Well, its Pokedex entry reveals it as being able to created images that aren't really there, so it all sort of fits. Kyogre- (kai-orca) I'm told that "kai" has something to do with water, and the general consensus is that the "ogre" is for "orca," which would make Kyogre the "water-whale." Latias/Latios- (lateo/latitude/latissimus-dorsi-tia/tio) Lateo supposedly means "to be hidden" in Latin, much like the Lati@s you can't get without using the Eon Ticket to reach the secluded southern island. Tia and tio are aunt and uncle in Spanish respectively, pertaining to their genders. The "lat" could also refer to latitude, because they fly all over the globe, or latissimus-dorsi, which are muscles connecting the arms to the back, which these Pokemons' wings appear to be extensions of. Ludicolo- (ludic-colocynth) A really tough one if you don't know your vocab. Ludic means "playful in an aimless way," much like the energetic Ludicolo, who loves to dance. A colocynth is "a plant bearing a round, yellow and green fruit." A perfect description of Ludicolo's appearance. Ludicolo's entire name could also be a play off of "ridiculo," the Spanish word for ridiculous. Lugia- (luteium-giant/lugeo) This large and powerful legendary is silverish in color, much like the element luteium. Also, lugeo (It's time to duh,duh,duh, duh,duh, duel! Latin style) means to lie dormant in mourning, much like Lugia, when it rests at the bottom of the ocean for fear of destuction from it's enormous power. Magcargo- (magma-escargot) The lava slug has evolved into a magma snail, complete with a rocky shell. Escargot is, of course, the French word for snail. Makuhita- (Makuhita) From what I'm told, "Makuhita" is a rank in the world of sumo-wrestling. Makuhita does indeed look like a sumo. Mew- (myo) Another stumper. At first glance one would simply think that Mew is a cat-like Pokemon, albeit an extremely rare and legendary one with psychic powers, and that "Mew" is a sound that a cat might make. This still may be the case, but I'd like to believe that the root is "myo," a Japanese adjective meaning "strange or unique." It would certainly make sense. Milotic- (Venus de Milo-melodic) Milotic is known for its beautiful, "melodic" singing, and for being very beautiful, (only the most beautiful Feebas will even be able to evolve). The famous sculpture- Venus de Milo, is known for being an example of beautious perfection, and like Milotic, it has no arms. Misdreavus- (mischievous-reave) This ghost Pokemon is known to be mischievous, scaring people with its scream. To "reave," is plunder or rob, something a sneaky and mischievous ghost might do. Moltres- (molten-tres) I doubt that the fire bird Moltres is losing its feathers, so molten (as in rock, which equals lava) makes more sense than "molting." Like the other birds, Moltres' Spanish number (3) probably indicates that it is to be caught third, near the end of the game, in Victory Road (or one of the new islands in FR/LG). Natu- (Atu/natu) This is still not clear. Apparentley, Atu is some Aztec god, however, I haven't found anything about him, so I don't even know what kind of animal he is. If it helps, natu also means "born" in Latin. Nidoking/Nidoqueen/Nidoran(M,F)/Nidorina/Nidorino- (nido-king/queen/ran/nina/ nino) Everyone insists that the "nido" is a play on "needle," but that just seems too stupid. I suspect that it means "nido," or, after being translated from Japanese, "twice, a second time." This would apply to the two (2) lines of Nidorans (one for each gender). King and queen are obvious, and the "ina" and "ino" are for "nina" and "nino," meaning girl and boy in Spanish, respectively. I doubt that "ran" means anything at all. Omanyte/Omastar- (omanite/-star) These little sea nautilus Pokemon are named after a prehistoric creature which they looks remarkably like. It is/was a blobby creature with tentacles, inside a snail-like shell. In terms of the "star" in "Omastar," I suppose that you could make out some kind of star-shape from all the tentacles and points on Omastar. Pichu/Pikachu/Raichu- (pika/rai-chu) "Chu" is an onomatopoeia in Japanese, for the sound a mouse makes. The "pika" is an actual animal which is actually a lagomorph, related to rabbits. "Rai" means "thunder" in Japanese. So, put it all together, and we have a little rabbit-mouse, a rabbit-mouse, and a thunder- mouse. Pika could also mean "flash," or "sparkle" (in Japanese), relating to the electricity of this line. Raikou- (rai-kou) These Japanese words translate to "thunder" and "lord," respectively. Raikou is the big dog of lightning, so that works fine. Ralts- (relates) The Pokedex does indicate that Ralts is very good at telling emotions and will only relate with kind trainers, and whatnot. Through the use of a crazy anagram (ReLATeS) you can get "Ralts" from "relates." I'll go with this for now, as there's nothing better for this guy. On a side note, look at that, all in the Ralts line made it to Tier 1; pretty impressive! Rayquaza- (ray/rax-quasar/Quetzacoatl) OMG. The final entry (in terms of order of writing them). Ray has something to do with Rayquaza being in the atmosphere, directly under RAYS of sunlight, or because of the particles that it feeds on. Alternately, "rax" means "stretch," denoting Rayquaza's long length. Quetzacoatl was an Aztec god represented by a feathered serpent, which describes Rayquaza pretty well. Or, the "quaza" is for "quasar," which is a heavenly body that produces large amounts of energy. Also a good description. Regice/Regirock/Registeel- (regi-ice/rock/steel) Not as tricky as Mew, but still a toughie. With the obvious part being the type-suffixes of ice, rock, and steel, the Latin root "regi" means "of or pertaining to royalty," as in "regicide" (the killing of a king). The prefix is equally fitting for each of these three mysterious legendaries. Remoraid- (remora-raid) The remora fish is known for attaching itself to the underside of larger marine creatures, demonstrated perfectly by Remoraid and its host, Mantine (look at a picture of Mantine and you can see Remora hanging under its "wing"). The "raid" comes from Remoraid's talent for a "quick and surprising attack" on insects, by shooting them with a stream of water. Sceptile- (scepter/scenic-reptile) Sceptile completes the Treecko line with a name fit for the highest evolution of a starter. Scepter can mean "imperial power or authority," which Sceptile would have, being a high evolution. Also, it likes to rule over a healthy, or "scenic" forest. Do I really have to explain "reptile"? Sudowoodo- (pseudo-wood) Sudowoodo does its best to impersonate a tree-like grass Pokemon, but is actually a rock. "Pseudo" means "false or pretended," as in pseudonym, which is a fake name used to cover a person's true identity. Suicune- (sui-kun) The parts in the water dog's name mean "water" and "lord" respectively. It all fits. Teddiursa- (teddy-ursidae) While "teddy" refers to a "teddy bear," ursidae indicates an animal as being in the bear family, as in the constellations Ursa Minor and Major, the little and big bear. Togepi/Togetic- (toge) "Toge" means "spike" in Japanese, and Togepi and Togetic are "spike-eggs." I'm not sure about their suffixes. Tropius- (tropical-saurus) Although the tropical part of Tropius is clearly seen, both in its name and in its banana tree-like appearance, the "us" is a bit more mysterious. Once again, I could be wrong, but seeing as how Tropius looks remarkably like one of the very large, long-necked dinosaurs, (Diplodocus, Brachiosaurus) the name ending makes sense. Umbreon- (umbra-eon) No, Umbreon is not an umbrella Pokemon, but both come from the root, umbra, meaning shade or shadow. Umbreon is the "dark" type Eevee evolution, after all. For the final time, eon is a suffix used with all the Eevee evolutions. Ursaring- (ursidae-ring) Strangely enough, the "ring" is just the ring on Ursaring's chest, while ursidae is the scientific classification for bears, on the family level. Vulpix- (vulpine-six/vixen) Vulpine is Latin for "fox" and Vulpix the fire-fox has "six" tales, (which will eventually split into nine). Also, a vixen is a female fox. Wobbuffet- (wobble-buffet) A name that's easy to break up, harder to understand. A short session playing Super Smash Brothers Melee makes it all clear. When "buffeted" (hit) by a reckless fighter (after being released from a Pokeball), the annoying Wobbuffet will "wobble" back and forth, like a clown-punching bag that comes right back at you. This also personifies Wobbuffet's special brand of attacks, which all involve returning the opponent's attack back at them. Wooper- (uupa) Uupa is a Japanese word for a "whooping noise," and whiskers similar to Wooper's are found on the Digimon- Uupamon. It's all connected somehow. Wynaut- (why not?) It took a while to get a good reason for why it was "why not?" It turns out that Wobbuffet's and Wynaut's Japanese names (Sonans and Sohnano respectively) meant "That's right!" and "Really?" respectively, so "why not" sort of follows that conversation. Xatu- (X-Atu/xatu) Xatu (the real thing, not the Pokemon) is a Native American totem pole, which makes sense, since the Pokemon Xatu does look a bit like a totem pole. Another explanation is "X+Atu." As stated in Natu's little bit, Atu is an Aztec god, (Xatu is described as being legendary in South America, or something) and the X would come from X in algebra, meaning, "the unknown." With its psychic mystic powers, Xatu can see into the future, and it is pretty mysterious itself. Yanma- (yanma) I'll just go ahead and take everyone's word that Yanma means "dragonfly" in Japanese...but apparently it doesn't, so here's Matt Heard's explanation: "Yanma means 'lamenting' which then means 'mourning.' However, lament sounds similar to lamina, which is a thin bone or plate, like Yanma's wings. Zangoose- ([zig]zag-mongoose) Whew, this guy wasn't that tough, but he sure is interesting. For one, I've reached the conclusion that the "za" is from "zig- zag," a pattern which Zangoose has one of on its otherwise bare body. The mongoose aspect is from Zangoose's "history" of battling Seviper, which parallels the real-life "struggle" between cobras and mongooses, especially in India. This also explains its ability- Immunity, seeing as how mongooses build up an immunity to the poison of the cobra and can therefore live through more battles. Zan also happens to mean "slash" in Japanese, or so I'm told. Zapdos- (zap-dos) Legendary bird #2 (dos) is an electric type, and should be caught second, in the Power Plant (although I always get him first, 'cause he makes catching Articuno easier). ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^ IV. Finishing Up ^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ =============================================================================== A. Credits All of the following have kindly provided me with some type of information used in this guide, or have provided me with info that I didn't use, but they still made an effort, all the same. Mega Cell- I can't say that this guide would have failed without Mega's assistance (because it wouldn't have) but I can say that he did a lot of the same research/work that I did a while ago, but never made a guide out of it. When all's said and done, I did use several of his explanations in this guide, including ones for Gengar, Anorith, Rayquaza, the 3 dogs, Makuhita and Hariyama Wynaut, Gligar, Vulpix, Bellossom, and Donphan. I came to just about the same conclusions for most others as he did, however, I did not ever see his list until it was posted in my help topic, so don't think that I'm some sneaky guy who took advantage of Mega Cell's hard work and made a FAQ out of it. He still does, though, deserve a lot of credit. Astral Fire and his Legendary FAQ- for some information on a several of the legendaries and their names. Other contributors: Darkness is coming UltimateZWarrior 7889 treblesp790 Chibi Soma Nega Elemental Dgener8knux EmporerDragon thedespairfaction Cyberquad ShadowX22 FreezeKill200 Meophist Eight Yards Short EvilDarkLink Sciwhiz89 Seeker after Chaos Blaziken 90 MoogleKupo141 sillE Apeman Lim Billy277 Prismetrix Feeple Danman007 Blue68 Nightfallo1uk Supadawg Scott Thang Zeldanemesis Acefowl yoshigamer Dartheo DarkWizardThree Count Popeula Larvi Dartheo oOAngelOfFireOo Gforce64 reaverz DarkKnight7 crazycleric mark cubillas Fenikkusu Roahm Mythril Someone You Dont Know Daniel Vottero Alima Ket Shi goldenworld christopher Mayfield Cantido-Sama hotprep4u2003 Kim McKinnon mijae Manga Kezo Cameron Fediuk- who has contributed more advice to date than anyone else Jason Godding Keegan Blackler Aniki Kevin Rood Mr Shorin zephyrdrake MrThou Nathan Rogge Matt Heard Jake Buckley Swiftpaw SilentSubrosian Paul Freersken KookyKMan Oscar Ramirez Justin Timberlake Jesus Reyes Xanfious the Warrior Robert Allen GS Rookie James Rutter Teri James Mageling Johnny Huang Jolts the Electric Dragon Marco Ramirez Conrad Linden Virtuaboy carsten waterworth Kyra King Edmund Long Patriarch Mark Mikhaeil Ewan Nicolson E'li Chaos Daniel Schell Chad Paton Akatsuki Hao Hikaru Ichijoe Teeahmatt Dark Diablo Ross Ferguson Tom F Ken Livingston petrie911 Pancaki no name zero Dark Myrmidon Kaiserine--Janus JTieDye2 Sam Peter Fulker Sam Ashley Pikamaster Blizaki Lord Matthias Random House Webster's: College Dictionary- for many definitions of less common words and roots. Random House: Japanese-English Dictionary- for just about all of the Japanese definitions found in this guide. =============================================================================== B. Contact Info. My e-mail is *REMOVED FROM GUIDE* With Nintendo starting to release names of some of the 4th gen. Pokemon, I'm removing my e-mail temporarily, so I don't get a flood of e-mails trying to explain munchlax or whatever... Please DO contact me if: *You seriously feel that I have provided faulty information and can provide me with what you feel is correct- be specific and accurate. The first to provide this info will be given credit *You have additional information for a Pokemon already completed. DO NOT contact me if: *You disagree with the RATING of a Pokemon's name. I wrote the guide, so they're my opinions. *You disagree with an explanation but can't think of anything better. *You need help with the playing of a Pokemon game- there are plenty of other FAQs for that. *You want to flame, degrade, or otherwise insult me for some reason. Please include "Pokemon Name FAQ" in the subject box for all e-mails. =============================================================================== C. Copyrights and Thanks All trademarks and copyrights contained in this document are owned by their respective trademark and copyright holders. Thanks to: CJayC (Gamefaqs.com), and neoseeker.com for hosting this guide Mega Cell- who did everything I did, but just didn't make a guide out of it. Astral Fire- for his helpful Legendary FAQ The Pokemon Company, Pokemon USA, Creatures, Game Freak, and Shogakukan, for helping to make such an amazing RPG series. Everyone who contributed to this guide in some way Anyone who reads and appreciates this guide Copyright 2004 Caleb Cook