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Ever wonder how J.K. comes up with the unusual names for her characters? Well, some of the names have a hidden meaning to them...
If you know anymore, or have any ideas send them to me, at harry_fans@hotmail.com
CHARACTERS
Hagrid: According to an interview with J.K., "Hagrid" means "hung over". And with Hagrid's drinking problem, it sure fits! It has also been rumored that "Hagrid" stands for "giant" in another language.
Severus Snape: "Snape" is a town in England that J.K. has been to. It was in her interview under "Meet J.K Rowling" on my page.
Albus Dumbledore: As many of you have probably heard, "Dumbledore" means "bumblebee."
Draco Malfoy: "Draco" means "dragon".
Minerva McGonagal: In Greek language, this means "Goddes of Wisdom."
Remus Lupin: In ancient times, Remus and his twin brother were abandoned and taken in by a pack of wolves. They later created Rome, Italy. "Lupin" is rumored to have meaning of the word "wolflike".
Sirius Black: His name means "Dog Star."
Argus Filch: "Filch" means "to steal in horrible ways." And in Greek Mythology "Argus" was a monster with thousands of eyes.
Ronald Weasley: Means "Running Weasel" in another language. It was also a stratigist who was brilliant at chess and never lost a game. (like Ron!) Now listen to this! : "Running Weasel" died one day when a rat had been dyed yellow by his soldiers for fun, and he knocked over a lamp in his palace, which burned to the ground-killing him!
Lord Voldemort: "Voldemort" means "Dark Lord".
Objects
Nimbus Broomsticks: "Nimbus" is a storm cloud that after reachign the ground becomes a goddess or god in Greek Mythology.
The Mirror of Erised: "Erised" spells "desire" backwards! And this mirror is supposed to show you what you most "desire." The inscription on the mirror reads "I show not your face but your
heart's desire." Thanks Kathren, for submitting this!
Animals
Hedwig: "Hedwig" was once a saint from Germany.
Basilisk: is a giant snake in legend with fatal breath and eyecontact. Thanks to Patty, we have the lengend: view it here.
Phoenix: Is a real-life bird that is very common in Arizona (I know this because I've been there.) It also has a legend, which you can view here.