Khuzdul is the language of the dwarves. When a dwarf is born he is granted a name by his parents in this language. However, the dwarves are extremely secretive about their language. Their Khuzdul name is usually known only to themselves and their immediate friends and family, and therefore is rarely shared with anyone. If you are a role-player you may choose a name formed from this language for your dwarf, but keep in mind that out in the world of Middle Earth he (or she) will go by a different name meant for outsiders and everyday use. A dwarf wouldn't be caught dead using his private name with an outsider, and neither should you!
First names for dwarves are rather straight-forward. The names are generally Norse-sounding. They are also very short (usually no more than two syllables). Some dwarves have more complex names combining one or more Norse words (for example, "Skorgrím"). However, the vast majority of dwarves use the short method. Dwarves generally don't dwell on choosing complex and meaningful names for their children -- they want simple and practical names that their children will wear well. After all, what's the point of a long, complicated name if you're just going to shorten it with a nickname? Therefore it is important to keep your dwarf's name short.
According to Turbine, common suffixes for dwarf names are "-ori, -óin, -íli, -alin, -orin, -osi, -imli, and -ormur". These suffixes are usually preceded by single consonants such as "G-, K-, L-, and T-" as well as consonant clusters such as "Dw- and Thr-". Note that with few prefixes and suffixes this means that often all combinations of these are taken on most of the servers, so you have to be creative. Usually adding certain letters to the name can fix this. For instance, since the "oi" combination is present in many of the names, adding an "i" after an "o" (such as -oirmur instead of -ormur) is a decent idea. It is also a good idea to keep consonants separated as much as possible. While combinations such as "Dw-" and "Dr-" are acceptable, "Dl-" is not. Make sure to say your chosen name aloud. If it feels difficult to say in your mouth, it is probably too complicated.
Like most races in Middle Earth, the dwarves use similar naming conventions within their individual families. For instance, "Fundin" is the father of "Balin" and "Dwalin". The names of siblings often rhyme.
Female Dwarves
Female dwarves generally use the same naming conventions, dress, looks, and language as the male dwarves. If you decide that your dwarf is female, she will not be distinguished by her name.
Dwarves do have surnames, unlike most races. However, it is not the kind of surname that is passed down from father to son. Instead, dwarven surnames usually say something about the dwarf -- his profession, something he has done in his life, or an interesting weapon or piece of armor that he possesses. For instance, in the case of Thorin Oakenshield, the surname Oakenshield originated from a battle where Thorin's shield was broken. In order to continue to fight he cut out branch from an oak tree during battle in order to defend himself. He then used the surname "Oakenshield" to commemorate the event.
One of the main reasons that dwarves use such surnames is that they are often named after fathers or relatives. At any moment there could be several dwarves with the same first name living in the same area. Taking on surnames is a way for dwarves to set themselves apart from the other dwarves that share the same name. They also use Roman numerals for this (such as Thorin I, Thorin II).
Dwarven surnames usually have some reference to armor or the earth in them. For instance, "Stonebreaker" would be a good surname for a dwarf who is a prospector. Dwarves take pride in their weapon and armor-crafting, and if a dwarf has crafted something particularly well he might take on a surname that reflects on this.
A good way to choose a name is to pick a type of weapon that your dwarf favors. For instance, are you a minstrel who uses a sword? A guardian who wields an axe? Use this weapon-type as the second part of your surname. Then find an adjective such as "strong" or "steel" -- something which describes a sturdy weapon. If your dwarf is not the type who throws himself into combat, try the name of one of your professions. A forester could be a "Treehewer" and a cook could be "Beefcake" (on second thought, don't use that surname). A minstrel could be "Lutestringer", and a hunter could be "Bowslinger'.
Just keep in mind that dwarves put an emphasis on strength, solidity, and physical power. They aren't nancy elves, their spirit is not dark and shadowy, and they never have a problem with their hearts being unable to sing. They may be a merry bunch at times, but their surnames generally do not express emotions or intangible things.
In the end, if you can't find a good surname for your dwarf, keep in mind that many dwarves go without one. Surnames are usually reserved for dwarves who have accomplished something great or done something interesting in their lives.
Things to watch out for:
- Try to avoid diphthongs (combinations of vowels) when thinking up a name. While dwarves use vowel combinations such as "oi" in "Gloin", vowels are almost always separated by consonants. If you have three vowels together, break them up!
- Remember to keep your name short! The vast majority of dwarf names contain two syllables. If you are combining a name out of actual Norse words it may be longer, but if the name doesn't mean something, it should be two syllables.
- Dwarves are private people. Try not to reveal too much about yourself in your name. Dwarves don't allow outsiders to know much about dwarven culture without a proof of trust. This is why most dwarven surnames do not contain emotions or feelings in them. Such things are private dwarf matters, so if you wish to choose a name with a meaning, try to stick to physical description. Also, avoid silly names or names meant as a joke (such as Porki or Pudgi). Dwarves take themselves seriously, and so should you! A name is a source of honor for a dwarf.
