About elf names
Most elf names are built from soft consonants such as l, n, r and th, joined by long open vowels, so the name reads almost like a line of song. Harsh clusters are rare, and many names run to three syllables or more.
The four elf types here each have their own sound. High elf names are formal and flowing. Wood elf names are shorter and earthier, and their family names are in the common tongue, such as Oakwhisper. Dark elf names lean on z, x and v for a sharper edge, and sea elf names borrow the rhythm of waves and tides.
Tips for choosing an elf name
Say it out loud
A name you'll repeat for a whole campaign should be comfortable to say. If you trip over it twice, trim a syllable.
Match the sound to the character
Soft endings like -wen and -iel suit gentle characters; sharper endings like -rak and -ryn suit dangerous ones.
Use the family name as a hook
Wood elf family names describe nature or a deed. Ask yourself how the family earned theirs.
Questions
What makes a name sound elvish?
Flowing syllables, soft consonants like l, n and th, and long vowels. Avoiding hard clusters such as 'kgr' does most of the work.
Why do dark elves have houses?
Dark elves in many settings are organised into rival noble houses, so the family name is shown as a house to fit that tradition.