We regularly receive requests for help with Anishinaabe names. For many people, receiving an Anishinaabe name is a very personal life-changing ceremony so we encourage you to work with elders you may know if you are asking for a name for yourself or a baby. There are many traditions so be sure to take time and get it right because the best Anishinaabe names are given with love and wisdom. It is also important to remember that names are given at different points in life and sometimes have a story that does not always match the literal translation. We are happy to help with the translation of names, but it is best to be sure you work with people from the community where they name was received if at all possible.

Many people working to revitalize Anishinaabemowin are happy to hear the language used correctly in poems, plays, songs, films and other creative works. So, if you are looking for an Anishinaabe name for a pet, a literary character, or need a nickname for a friend or the spelling for your next tattoo, here are some name suggestions we have gathered over the years.

In the spirit of more use of the language being for the best we have put together this page and would love to hear contributions to our list. Send a note to akiienzii@gmail.com to include a name.

Note: You may notice that it is common to add “ikwe” or “inini” to indicate gender but it is not necessary and many names can be used by either gender.