Main Characters:
* Harry Potter: "Harry" is an English name meaning "home ruler" or "army ruler". "Potter" is an occupational name for someone who makes pots. This fits Harry's destiny as the "Boy Who Lived" and a leader in the fight against Voldemort. The name also alludes to his parents, both of whom were skilled potion-makers.
* Hermione Granger: "Hermione" is a Greek name meaning "messenger" or "protector." "Granger" is an English surname for someone who lived near a farm. Hermione embodies both of these aspects: she is a key messenger of information throughout the series and a powerful protector of her friends. Her surname also hints at her connection to the wizarding world, as she is an outsider who enters the magical world from a "mundane" background.
* Ron Weasley: "Ron" is a shortened form of "Ronald," which means "ruler of the house". "Weasley" is an English surname that might refer to a person who lives near a weasel or a person who is cunning. Ron's name reflects his family dynamics, as he is the youngest son and also the "ruler" in many ways. The "weasel" aspect can be interpreted as both a positive (cunning and resourceful) and negative (sometimes cowardly or timid) trait.
* Draco Malfoy: "Draco" is Latin for "dragon". "Malfoy" is a French surname meaning "bad faith" or "evil faith." Draco's name clearly indicates his dark path and his allegiance to Voldemort. He is often compared to a snake, which is a symbol of cunning and danger, and also connected to Voldemort.
* Lord Voldemort: The name "Voldemort" means "flight of death". It is derived from French, but the word has no direct equivalent in English. Voldemort's name foreshadows his ultimate goal, which is to conquer death. He also chooses to be known by this name because it instills fear in others.
Other Notable Characters:
* Albus Dumbledore: "Albus" is a Latin name meaning "white" or "dawn." "Dumbledore" is an old English word that means "bumblebee". Dumbledore's name is often interpreted as a reference to his wisdom, his light-bringer nature, and his love for peace. The "bumblebee" aspect may be a symbol of his playful and eccentric nature.
* Severus Snape: "Severus" is a Latin name meaning "strict" or "stern." The meaning of "Snape" is unknown, but it could be derived from the word "snap," which suggests a sudden and often negative reaction. Snape's name accurately reflects his personality, which is both harsh and deeply emotional.
* Neville Longbottom: "Neville" is a Latin name meaning "new town." "Longbottom" is an English surname that might refer to a person who lived near a valley or a person who was tall. Neville's name is somewhat ironic, as he is often portrayed as timid and unsure of himself. The "new town" part might suggest his potential for growth and change.
* Luna Lovegood: "Luna" is a Latin name meaning "moon." "Lovegood" is a surname that suggests a person who is kind and good-hearted. Luna's name reflects her unique personality and her love of the unusual and mystical.
Important Note:
J.K. Rowling has stated that she chose the names for her characters carefully, and that each name has a deeper meaning. However, there is often room for personal interpretation, and different readers may see different layers of meaning in these names.