The main characters’ names are highly symbolic and represent aspects of each character’s traits. Reynie is a nickname for Reynard, which is similar to the French word renard, which means fox. Reynie is certainly clever and quick-witted like a fox. Sticky earned his nickname because everything sticks in his mind. He prefers this moniker over his actual name, George Washington, which he feels comes with high expectations. Kate’s last name is Wetherall; she is resilient and resourceful and can “weather it all.” Constance Contraire sounds much like “constantly contrary,” which sums up Constance’s tendency to contradict everything that people want her to do.

Other characters also have symbolic names. Mr. Benedict’s name refers to Saint Benedict, the patron saint of Europe (Mr. Benedict was born in the Netherlands) and the founder of the Benedictine order of monks, which emphasizes the importance of community. His first name is Nicholas, which is a nod to Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus. Conversely, Mr. Ledroptha Curtain’s name reflects his desire to obscure and deceive, to “drop the curtain” and hide his messages and diabolical plan.

More minor characters also have symbolic names that are amusingly appropriate. S.Q. Pedalian’s name sounds much like sesquipedalian, meaning “a foot and a half.