The world ofPokemonhas captivated fans globally for decades, and part of its charm lies in the names of its creatures. While many Pokemon names remain consistent across locales, some undergo intriguing changes in translation. Due to the structure of the language, the Japanese versions of Pokemon often trend towards a more literal naming scheme, which may reveal new facets of a creature’s personality, origin, or abilities. Understanding these linguistic differences offers a fresh perspective and deeper appreciation for beloved Pokemon. From ancient myths to clever wordplay, each name holds its own story, providing insight into how Pokemon are perceived in their original culture.
1Sylveon (Nymphia)
Fairest Of Them All
Sylveon, one of the most beloved Eevee evolutions, is adored for its graceful, ribbon-like appendages and fairy-like appearance. The name “Sylveon” has Germanic origins, deriving from the mythical air spirits known as “sylphs,” which are often associated with fairies. This ties into the “eon” suffix, a staple across allEevee evolutions.In Japanese, Sylveon is called “Nymphia,” rooted in the word “nymph,” which refers to minor nature deities in Greek mythology closely linked to fairies since the Middle Ages. This subtle shift in naming highlights the connection between nature and magic, reinforcing Sylveon’s fairy typing and enriching its backstory as a protector of nature. Sylveon’s ethereal beauty and otherworldly grace align perfectly with its cute, beribboned appearance and magical abilities.
2Ditto (Metamon)
The Amorphous Blob
For a Pokemon based on the concept of a smiley face, Ditto has an intriguing design and name origins. The term “ditto” dates back to 17th-century Italy, but its modern usage in English comes from the now-defunct copy machines that popularized the word as an adverb.
Its Japanese name, Metamon, combines the words for “metamorphose” and “monster,” reflecting Ditto’s ability to change its cellsinto another Pokemonat will. This literal naming approach emphasizes Ditto’s adaptability and versatility in battles, showcasing its unique skill set.
3Bulbasaur (Fushigidane)
It’s Strange, Isn’t It?
Despite its design being based on a frog, Bulbasaur’s name combines “bulb” (a type of seed) and “saurus” (derived from the Ancient Greek word for lizard). The name also bears a resemblance to the word “bulbous.” Fushigidane, the Japanese name, combines fushigi, meaning “strange” or “mysterious,” and tane, meaning “seed.” It can also be interpreted as a sentence, meaning, “isn’t it strange?” This play on words suggests an element of wonder surrounding Bulbasaur’s origins. Funnily enough, Bulbasaur’s evolved form, Venusaur, is known as Fushigisou in Japanese, which may also be interpreted as “It seems strange,” further enhancing the mystique of these iconic Pokemon.
4Snorlax (Kabigon)
An Epic Yarn
Interestingly, the design for Snorlax was directly inspired by game designer Koji Nishino, who earned the nickname “Kirby” (pronounced Kābī) due to his eating habits. The design was referred to as Kirby throughout the production process before receiving its final name. In Japanese, kabi also translates to mold, which adds another layer to its name by suggesting that this Pokemon will consume anything, even moldy food. This whimsical aspect of Snorlax’s character adds charm, as it emphasizes its carefree, gluttonous nature, in contrast to his English name, which focuses onhis sleeping habits.
5Squirtle (Zenigame)
Every Zeni Counts
Squirtle’s name was chosen in English because squirt guns were considered a “cool” toy for kids, but the Japanese name carriesdeeper cultural significance. In Japanese, Squirtle is called “Zenigame,” referring to baby pond turtles. The term “zeni” may resonate with fans of the Dragon Ball series, and it is also an old-fashioned term for money in Japan, originally describing coins with a square hole that could be threaded onto a cord. This connection is fitting, as the shell of a turtle resembles these ancient coins. Additionally, Squirtle’s long tail references “Minogame,” a mythical turtle said to live for 10,000 years, known for growing a tail made of seaweed.
6Gardevoir (Sirknight)
Keeping Chivalry Alive
Gardevoir’s elegance and protective nature are reflected in both its English and Japanese names. Its English name has decidedly French origins, as Gardevoir combines “garde” (guard) and “voir” (to see), highlighting its role as a psychic guardian. The Japanese name, “Sirknight,” also emphasizes protection but with a more masculine-sounding twist.
It paints Gardevoir as a chivalrous figure, committed to defending its trainer. This duality, blending grace and strength, makes Gardevoir’s design stand out, as it resembles both a ballet dancer and a knight. Its ethereal beauty and empathetic nature are mirrored in its flowing gown-like body and powerful abilities.
7Jigglypuff (Purin)
The Balloon Pokemon
Jigglypuff’s Japanese name aptly reflects her bouncy, rounded shape, as it also means pudding in Japanese. This name evokessomething sweet and wiggly.The word “puchi,” meaning petite, also comes to mind and is often used in association with pudding in Japan due to its cute, alliterative sound. The word also evokes an onomatopoeic charm—“puripuri” can describe someone moving in a huff, which is quite fitting for Jigglypuff’s short temper when her audience falls asleep during its singing performances. Jigglypuff’s name cleverly combines cuteness and a touch of attitude, a balance that has made it a memorable character for generations.
8Poltchageist (Chadeath)
Delicious but Deadly
Poltchageist, a newer addition to thePokemonworld, offers a spooky pun in both English and Japanese. In English, its name blends “poltergeist” and “cha,” the Japanese word for tea. Its Japanese name, “Chadeath,” plays off the same word, with a humorous twist. Pronounced as “chadesu,” it can be understood as both “it’s tea” and “cha death,” linking the ghostly element to the tea-based design.
Poltchageist also draws inspiration from the concept of tsukumogami—objects that gain sentience after turning 100 years old. Its design also references kintsugi, a Japanese art in which objects are given a second life by filling in their cracks (usually with gold) to repair them, which this Pokemon does using its matcha paste.
9Horsea (Tattsū)
A Cute Dragon Pokemon
The English name Horsea is a straightforward portmanteau of a child’s word for horse and the word sea. However, its Japanese name, “Tattsū,” delves deeper into mythology and is derived from the name given to seahorses in Japan, which references a myth that states seahorses living for a century will become dragons. This ties into Horsea’s later evolution into a Dragon-type Pokemon, making its Japanese name a more accurate reflection of its final form. The mythical background of the name adds a layer of intrigue to this otherwise unassumingWater-type Pokemon.
10Shuckle (Tsubotsubo)
Full of Surprises
Known as “the mold Pokemon,” Shuckle is a creature that raises many questions butprovides few answers. Due to his unique ability to ferment berries inside his shell, it may be more accurately translated as the fermentation Pokemon. In English, Shuckle’s name seems to blend “shuck” (a protective covering) and “barnacle,” or perhaps “turtle.” However, its Japanese name, “Tsubotsubo,” provides slightly more clarity. “Tsubo” means jar, referencing Shuckle’s shell, which it uses for fermentation. Additionally, “fujitsubo” is the Japanese word for barnacle, which further emphasizes Shuckle’s rock-type nature. This combination of jar and barnacle imagery aligns with Shuckle’s in-game abilities and gives fans a better understanding of its strange, yet fascinating, biology.
