True Stories Behind Famous Company Names

Ever wondered how famous companies got their names? Behind every iconic brand, there's often an interesting story or inspiration that led to its name. And today, we'll delve into the true stories behind five famous company names, revealing the unique origins and surprising anecdotes behind these well-known brands. From technological giants to household names, these stories showcase the creativity and ingenuity that goes into creating a memorable company name.

1. Apple

One of the most recognizable tech companies in the world, Apple has a simple yet profound name that has become synonymous with innovation. The name "Apple" was inspired by co-founder Steve Jobs' time spent working at an apple orchard during his youth. Jobs found the name to be simple, memorable, and friendly, reflecting the company's goal of making technology accessible to all. The logo of an apple with a bite taken out of it further added to the brand's distinct identity. According to Jobs, the bite symbolized knowledge or enlightenment, evoking a sense of curiosity and inviting people to explore the possibilities that Apple's products offered. The name "Apple" also conveniently placed the company ahead of its competitor in the phone book, Atari.

2. Google

Google, the world's most widely used search engine, owes its name to a simple spelling mistake. The original name was intended to be "Googol," a mathematical term representing the number 1 followed by 100 zeros. Founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin were seeking a name that represented the vast amount of information they aimed to organize and make accessible. During the registration process, however, the name was mistakenly spelled as "Google," and the founders decided to keep it. The name stuck and became an iconic representation of the company's mission to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. 

3. LEGO

The LEGO Group, known for its iconic plastic building bricks, derives its name from the Danish words "leg godt," which mean "play well." Ole Kirk Christiansen, the company's founder, began producing wooden toys in the 1930s and later transitioned to plastic bricks. In 1934, Christiansen officially named the company LEGO, inspired by the Danish phrase that embodied the essence of creative play. The LEGO name perfectly captured the company's mission to inspire imagination and provide a platform for children to build and create. The simplicity and universal appeal of the name contributed to the company's success and recognition worldwide. Today, LEGO remains a beloved brand associated with creativity, innovation, and endless possibilities.

4. Nike

Nike, the renowned sportswear and athletic shoe company, takes its name from Greek mythology. Co-founder Phil Knight was inspired by the Greek goddess of victory, Nike, and decided to name the company after her. The swoosh logo, designed by Carolyn Davidson, represents the wings of the goddess and symbolizes movement, speed, and victory. The name Nike aligns perfectly with the company's mission to inspire athletes and individuals to strive for greatness and achieve their goals. It conveys a sense of determination, excellence, and the pursuit of victory, which resonates with athletes and consumers worldwide. 

5. Amazon

The name Amazon, one of the world's largest e-commerce companies, has its roots in Greek mythology as well. Founder Jeff Bezos chose the name as a reflection of the company's ambitious vision and its goal to become the largest online retailer on the planet. The Amazon River, the largest river in the world by discharge volume, symbolized the vastness and scale of the company's aspirations. Additionally, Bezos wanted a name that started with the letter "A" to ensure that Amazon appeared at the top of alphabetical lists and directories. This strategic move aimed to enhance the company's visibility and accessibility to potential customers. The name Amazon also resonated with its diverse product range, similar to the Amazon Rainforest's rich biodiversity. Over the years, Amazon has expanded its services far beyond its initial focus on books, embracing its name's significance as a symbol of vastness and abundance.