literature

Pokemon Species Titles Part 1

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Literature Text

A Pokémon Species Title refers to a short title that is designed to give a very brief description of one of if not several important pieces of classifying information that describe the anatomy or powers of a specific Pokémon. Unfortunately, due to translation errors or misconceptions about the physical features of specific species of Pokémon, these titles often times do not adequately describe them and are rarely ever consulted for true, valuable information. Nonetheless, these titles can still tell interesting information about a Pokémon and are a great way to observe how different cultures scientifically observe and classify Pokémon, sometimes even offering some meaning or data that might not otherwise be apparent from just looking at a Pokémon or observing it in battle. This list will cover the meanings and purpose behind all known species titles and will note translation differences or errors between titles constructed or translated by English-speaking nations and Japanese equivalents that may explain some of the odder titles that have been assigned to Pokémon as a result of differences in culture and classification schemes.


LIST OF POKEMON SPECIES NAMES

Bulbasaur, Ivysaur, Venusaur, Sunkern-Seed Pokémon: In the case of the members of the Bulbasaur family, this title refers to the seed that is planted on their backs shortly after birth which eventually sprouts into the enormous parasitic plant that comes to dominate their form as they grow. For Sunkern, this title simply refers to the fact that they are sentient seeds.

Charmander-Lizard Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Charmander are reptiles, specifically lizards.

Charmeleon, Charizard, Flareon, Moltres, Infernape-Flame Pokémon: This title refers to the powerful flames that often lick across the bodies of these beasts or, in the case of Flareon, is just a direct reference to their Fire-type powers.

Squirtle-Tiny Turtle/Young Turtle Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Squirtle are turtles and are small in size.

Wartortle-Turtle Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Wartortle are turtles without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Blastoise, Kabuto, Kabutops-Shellfish/Shell Pokémon-The English title of these creatures is a mistranslation, with the correct title being the Japanese title of the Shell Pokémon, which refers to the hard shell possessed by Blastoise and the thick exoskeleton possessed by Kabuto and Kabutops.

Caterpie, Wurmple, Snom-Worm/Caterpillar Pokémon: The English title of these creatures is a mistranslation as neither of these creatures are worms; they are actually the caterpillar stage of three different Bug-type Pokémon families.

Metapod, Kakuna, Silcoon, Cascoon-Cocoon/Chrysalis/Pupa (for Kakuna) Pokémon-This title refers to the fact these creatures are effectively the chrysalis or pupa stage of development in their respective Pokémon families.

Butterfree, Beautifly-Butterfly Pokémon: This title refers to the fact these insects are classified as butterflies without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Weedle-Hairy Bug/Hairy Caterpillar Pokémon-This title refers to the fact that Weedle are caterpillar-like in form but are slightly different in that they are covered with tiny hairs that aid in movement and the detection of objects close to their bodies.

Beedrill-Poison Bee Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Beedrill are bees that have the ability to use potent toxins as a weapon.

Pidgey, Spearow, Natu, Rookidee-Tiny Bird/Small Bird Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these Pokémon are birds and are small in size.

Pidgeotto, Pidgeot-Bird Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Pidgeotto and Pidgeot are birds without any other major distinguishing point to describe.

Rattata, Raticate, Pikachu, Raichu, Sandshrew, Sandslash, Pawmi, Pawmo-Mouse Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these Pokémon are either all related to mice or possess bodily characteristics that seem mouse-like. In the case of the members of the Sandshrew family, this means that their species name is effectively a misnomer as they are not closely related to mice at all.

Fearow-Beak Pokémon: This title refers to the long, pointed beak that characterizes Fearow.

Ekans-Snake Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Ekans are snakes without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Arbok-Cobra Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Arbok resemble cobras despite the fact that their evolutionary development forces them to be classified as a separate type of snake altogether (as Ekans are designed to look more like rattlesnakes for defense).

Pichu-Tiny Mouse Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Pichu are related to mice just like their evolved forms and are small in size.

Nidoran♀, Nidorina, Nidoran♂, Nidorino, Poipole, Naganadel-Poison Pin/Poison Needle Pokémon: This title refers to the toxic barbs and needles that dot the hides of these Pokémon as both an offensive and defensive tool.

Nidoqueen, Nidoking, Rhydon, Rhyperior-Drill Pokémon: This title, in the case of Rhydon and Rhyperior, refers to the fact that they can rotate their central horn like a drill; it is currently unknown how Nidoqueen and Nidoking acquired the title, but it may have been derived from their effectiveness in using the Horn Drill attack when it was available as a TM in Silph Co.’s 1st generation line of TMs.

Cleffa, Staryu-Star Shape Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures possess a body that is star-shaped, whether the appearance is by design (in the case of Staryu) or coincidental (in the case of Cleffa).

Clefairy, Clefable, Snubbull, Granbull-Fairy Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are Fairy-types without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Vulpix, Ninetales, Fennekin, Braixen, Delphox, Nickit, Thievul-Fox Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these Pokémon are all considered to be foxes without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Igglybuff, Jigglypuff, Wigglytuff, Qwilfish, Drifloon-Balloon Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are able to inflate their bodies like balloons either as a means of defense, a lifestyle choice (in the case of Drifloon) or as a direct method of increasing the damage they can deal with certain attacks.

Zubat, Golbat, Crobat, Woobat-Bat Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are bats without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Oddish, Gloom-Weed Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these plants often remain partially buried in the ground and are easily mistaken for weeds unless they are pulled, in which case they will unleash their potent toxic powders in defense.

Vileplume, Bellossom, Bellsprout-Flower Pokémon: In the case of Vileplume and Bellossom, this title refers to the large flowers that dominate their anatomy and serve as their primary means of defense. It is unknown how Bellsprout came to acquire this title, as while it can produce flowers, they are not very prominent and only last about two weeks after they open before they wilt and fall off.

Paras, Parasect, Shroomish, Breloom, Foongus, Amoonguss-Mushroom Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are dominantly mushrooms or, in the case of Paras and Parasect, are at the mercy of a parasitic fungus that comes to dominate and ultimately control their bodies without their consent.

Venonat-Insect Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Venonat are insects without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Venomoth, Dustox-Poison Moth: This title refers to the fact that Venomoth and Dustox are moths that specialize in using toxic powders as a means of defense and occasionally offense.

Diglett, Dugtrio, Drilbur-Mole Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are moles without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Meowth- Scratch Cat/Monster Cat Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Meowth are cats that are known for using their claws as their primary means of offense and possess bizarre powers (namely their Pay Day attack) that go beyond the capabilities of similar creatures.

Persian-Classy Cat/Siamese Cat Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Persian are cats similar in appearance to Siamese cats and are known for only obeying strong owners, often times being viewed as a symbol of wealth and power.

Psyduck, Golduck-Duck Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are ducks without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Mankey, Primeape-Pig Monkey Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are technically considered to be primates but are distinguished by their pig-like snouts.

Annihilape-Rage Monkey Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are technically considered to be primates with pig-like snouts, but are further separated from Mankey and Primeape by the sheer amount of rage that fills their heart.

Growlithe, Lillipup, Rockruff, Yamper, Fidough-Puppy Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these Pokémon are young canines and often times treated as pets by young children.

Arcanine-Legendary Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that, while Arcanine are not truly considered legendary Pokémon, they were once seen and treated as such by the Chinese; this is because, despite having large populations of Growlithe in the wild, the country is marked by an extreme paucity of Fire Stones which makes these creatures exceedingly rare and hard to find.

Poliwag, Poliwhirl, Poliwrath, Tympole-Tadpole Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are tadpoles without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Politoed-Frog Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Politoed are frogs without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Abra, Kadabra, Alakazam-Psi/Telekinesis Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are dominantly recognized for their incredible psychic powers without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Machop, Machoke, Machamp-Superpower/Superhuman Strength Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are best-recognized for their incredible strength, which far exceeds what any normal human is capable of.

Weepinbell, Victreebel-Flycatcher Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these plants are related to pitcher plants and are well-known for luring in small insects and other creatures into their mouths (which are actually modified leaves) before dousing them in acid and digesting them for nutrients.

Tentacool, Tentacruel-Jellyfish Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are jellyfish without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Geodude, Graveler-Rock Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are effectively living rocks without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Golem-Megaton Pokémon: This title refers not to the actual mass of Golem but is an overzealous (and scientifically inaccurate) expression of the sheer amount of momentum these creatures can build up while rolling around and the subsequent force they can apply when colliding with an object.

Ponyta, Rapidash-Fire Horse Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are horses that are more often than not cloaked in intense flames as a result of their Fire-type powers.

Slowpoke-Dopey/Stupid Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Slowpoke are very slow-moving and slow-thinking as a result of weakened nerve connections in their bodies; contrary to their Japanese title, they are not actually what one could call ‘stupid’.

Slowbro-Hermit Crab Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that immediately after evolving, Slowbro gain the ability to use a Withdraw technique by partially retracting their bodies into the Shellder that is now clamped onto their tails, much as a hermit crab would do when being attacked.

Slowking, Pyroar-Royal/Monarch Pokémon: For Slowking, this title refers to the fact that they are considered to be so rare and intelligent in comparison to the other members of the Slowpoke family that they are the cream of the crop and rule over all others with their vast intellect…though in truth the name is realistically a misnomer as Slowking do not demonstrate an elitist behavior, leaving an explanation only in the context of their vernacular name. Pyroar, on the other hand, demonstrate behavior that more than demonstrate their positions as royalty and will treat those they see as below them with great contempt, fighting to ensure that they and only they rule their habitat of choice.

Galarian Slowking-Hexpert: This title refers to the fact that Galarian Slowking use their psychic powers in the form of hexes and incantations in order to attack others.

Magnemite, Magneton-Magnet Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these machines use magnets attached to their bodies and magnetism in general to attack and defend themselves.

Magnezone- Magnet Area/Magnetic Field Pokémon: This title is similar to the one given to its pre-evolved forms, but it is classified as being different because the effective range of a Magnezone’s magnetic field is much, much greater than that of Magnemite or Magneton and enables them to attack and defend themselves over an extremely wide area of land.

Farfetch’d, Sirfetch'd-Wild Duck/Spot-Billed Duck Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Farfetch’d are, as one might imagine, wild ducks and bear a resemblance to the Spot-billed Duck.

Doduo-Twin Bird Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Doduo are birds that possess two heads.

Dodrio-Triple Bird/Triplet Bird Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Dodrio are birds that possess three heads.

Seel, Dewgong, Popplio-Sea Lion Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are related to sea lions without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Grimer, Muk: Sludge Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are effectively nothing more than living piles of sludge controlled by mutated amoebas that possess sentience as a collective mind.

Shellder, Cloyster, Clamperl-Bivalve Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are bivalves without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Gastly, Haunter-Gas/Gaseous Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that the bodies of these creatures are dominantly comprised of gas.

Gengar-Shadow Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Gengar specialize in hiding in the shadows of others and scaring them in order to easily secure life energy for sustenance.

Onix-Rock Snake Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Onix possess bodies that are mostly made out of rock and grant them a snake-like body form.

Steelix-Iron Snake Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Steelix possess bodies that are dominantly made out of metals like iron and possess a snake-like body form.

Drowzee, Hypno-Hypnosis Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creature are best known for their use of hypnosis and associated psychic powers to haggle and incapacitate opponents.

Krabby-River Crab/Freshwater Crab Pokémon: This title is a bit of a misnomer, as while Krabby are crabs and are known to be found in freshwater rivers and large bodies of water, they can also be found among oceanic environments; the name most likely arose as a result of them being more common in freshwater bodies of water in the Kanto region where they were first described.

Kingler, Scizor-Pincer Pokémon: In the case of Kingler, this title refers to the enormously large pincer on their left front-most limb that grants them incredible physical strength and the most powerful Crabhammer attack out of all Pokémon. For Scizor, this title references the pincers they possess on their upper limbs as a means of both offensive might and intimidation.

Voltorb, Electrode-Ball/Sphere Pokémon: This title refers to the fact these creatures are ball-shaped, just like the capture devices that they were designed to mimic, without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Exeggcute, Chansey-Egg Pokémon: In the case of Exeggcute, this title is a misnomer as while these creatures do resemble eggs, they are actually immature seeds. Chansey possess this title as a result of the egg that they carry with them everywhere and its importance in their natural life cycle.

Exeggutor-Coconut Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are related to coconut palms without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Cubone-Lonely Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Cubone often have to live on their own without any support from their mother because most female Marowak end up dying in the process of childbirth.

Marowak-Bone Keeper/Bone Lover Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Marowak use bones as their primary means of offense in battle (and are subsequently masters of their use in melee combat) and will rarely ever use any of their other available moves unless absolutely called for.

Tyrogue-Scuffle Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Tyrogue never give up in battle and are always eager for a fight, even if they are in too poor of a medical state to put up much of a fight.

Hitmonlee-Kicking/Kick Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Hitmonlee are masters of kick-based attacks and will rarely use anything else as a form of offense in battle.

Hitmonchan-Punching/Punch Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Hitmonchan are masters of fist-based attacks and will rarely use anything else as a form of offense in battle.

Hitmontop-Handstand/Headstand Pokémon: The English title for this species is a bit of a mistranslation, as Hitmontop do not actually use their hands that much to support themselves; instead, they rely on their pointed head to spin like a top and utilize moves with increased priority to deal damage and heckle the opposition.

Lickitung, Lickilicky- Licking Pokémon: This title refers to the long tongues possessed by these creatures and their penchant for licking everything around them as their primary means of interacting with the world.

Koffing, Weezing-Poison Gas Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Koffing and Weezing are little more than living sacks of toxic gas that specialize in using said gas as a means of offense and defense.

Rhyhorn-Spikes Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that the hides of Rhyhorn are covered in spine-like protrusions that can cause a great deal of pain if forcefully impacted into a target.

Happiny-Playhouse/Playing House Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures enjoy playing with other Pokémon on almost any occasion, even if the Pokémon they wish to play with is extremely dangerous to their own life or the life of their trainer.

Blissey, Togetic-Happiness Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are strongly associated with emotions of joy and happiness.

Tangela, Tangrowth-Vine/Tendril Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are covered in long vines that shield most of their true bodies and serve as their primary means of interacting with the world.

Kangaskhan-Parent/Parent and Child Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Kangaskhan are marsupials that carry their young with them everywhere and are extremely protective of said offspring.

Horsea, Seadra, Kingdra, Dratini, Dragonair, Dragonite, Salamence, Goodra-Dragon Pokémon: For most of the Pokémon under this title, it refers directly to the fact that they are Dragon-types without any other major distinguishing points to describe. The only reason why Horse and Seadra are also assigned this title is because they still have the genes needed to be classified as Dragon-types and can learn Dragon-type moves naturally; the only problem is that some of these genes are inactive and will not be rendered fully active until Seadra begin to evolve into Kingdra.

Goldeen, Seaking-Goldfish Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are goldfish without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Starmie-Mysterious Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that the behavior and manner in which Starmie interact with the world is bizarre and their life functions, including the exact emotional meanings behind the different colors their core flashes and their development of intelligent thought, has created questions among the scientific community that have yet to be fully answered.

Mime Jr.-Mime Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Mime Jr. enjoy using pantomime to mimic the actions of others.

Mr. Mime-Barrier Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Mr. Mime are best known for their ability to create barrier walls out of air.

Scyther-Mantis/Praying Mantis Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Scyther possess a body structure similar to what is seen in a praying mantis.

Smoochum-Kiss Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Smoochum dominantly use their lips as a tool for interacting with the world, as it is the only part of their body that is fully-developed when they are initially born.

Jynx-Human Shape/Humanoid Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Jynx possess a body that is very human-like in its shape and proportions and are readily observed displaying human-like behaviors.

Elekid, Electabuzz, Zapdos-Electric/Electric Shock (in the case of Electabuzz and Zapdos) Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these Pokémon are Electric-types that enjoy using their powers to electrify anything that gets in their way.

Electivire, Zebstrika-Thunderbolt/Thunder and Lightning (in the case of Zebstrika) Pokémon: While this title works perfectly for Electivire as it describes their love for using powerful Thunderbolt attacks to electrify opponents, it is a bit of a misnomer for Zebstrika as they cannot learn that attack naturally, in turn leaving it as just a general description of their Electric-type powers.

Magby-Live Coal Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Magby are not extremely dangerous Fire-types on their own but can be a slight hazard in general as hot embers dribble out of their mouths as they breathe, burning others with the same intensity one might expect from a hot coal.

Magmar-Spitfire/Fire-Blowing Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Magmar will often spit large streams of fire from their mouths in a battle situation in order to raise the ambient temperature to a level that is comfortable for them and their Fire-type powers, often times going beyond what other Pokémon are able to physically handle.

Magmortar-Blast/Explosion Fume Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Magmortar are able to launch powerful Fire-type attacks from their arms like pressurized cannons, literally sending out blasts of intense heat that can scorch most other Pokémon in an instant.

Pinsir, Vikavolt-Stag Beetle Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Pinsir and Vikavolt are closely related to normal stag beetles and possess a body form that generally matches that of their insect relatives, even if their pincers are heavily modified by comparison.

Tauros-Wild Bull/Rampaging Bull Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Tauros are bulls that tend to act extremely aggressive and are too wild and rambunctious to easily control.

Miltank-Milk Cow/Dairy Cow Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Miltank are cows that are often used in the production of fine, higher-class dairy products than what traditional cows can be used to produce.

Magikarp, Feebas-Fish Pokémon-This title refers to the fact that these creatures are fish without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Gyarados-Atrocious Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Gyarados possess an extremely aggressive and overall atrocious behavior that only the strongest of trainers will ever be able to control.

Lapras-Transport Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Lapras are best-known for their willingness to act as transport vehicles for people and Pokémon of all types out of the kindness of their hearts.

Ditto-Transform/Transformation Pokémon: This title refers to the ability Ditto have to Transform into any other Pokémon or object they desire while being unable to do anything else to attack or defend themselves.

Eevee-Evolution Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Eevee, due to their unstable genetics, are able to evolve into a total of eight different Pokémon depending upon their current status and surrounding environment.

Vaporeon-Bubble Jet/Foam-Spitting Pokémon: It is not clear exactly what this title is really supposed to mean as Vaporeon cannot learn any Water-type moves naturally that involve bubbles; the only possible explanation is that this is used to describe the trail of bubbles they may leave in the water when hiding in a ‘dissolved’ state if they are unable to extract enough oxygen from the water to breathe properly and are in turn struggling for air.

Jolteon, Electrike-Lightning Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these Pokémon are Electric-types without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Espeon, Sunflora, Volcarona-Sun Pokémon: This title refers to a strong connection between these creatures and the sun, whether it be literal (in the case of Sunflora and Espeon, the latter of which can naturally learn the Morning Sun technique) or metaphorical (namely Volcarona’s use as a source of light in the face of volcanic, sun-blocking ash clouds and acid rain clouds).

Umbreon-Moonlight Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that moonlight affects the overall power of Umbreon and in turn the Moonlight technique that they learn naturally.

Leafeon-Verdant/Fresh Verdure Pokémon: This title refers to the bright green, grassy coloration and body form of Leafeon and the abnormalities in their appearance that come about as a result of them being animal/plant hybrids.

Glaceon, Vanillite-Fresh Snow: In the case of Glaceon, this title refers to the fact that these creatures possess impressive Ice-type powers and are a fresh start from the otherwise plain-Normal-type assignment of Eevee, in turn coming off as a ‘fresh snow’ in the Ice-type world. For Vanillite, this title merely references their habit of appearing out of nowhere whenever there is freshly-fallen snow on the ground.

Sylveon-Intertwining/Association Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Eevee will only evolve into Sylveon if they have access to at least one Fairy-type move and display a moderately strong bond of affection with their trainer.

Porygon, Porygon2, Porygon-Z-Virtual Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are effectively living computer code brought into reality with the aid of virtual reality and primitive 3D printing technology and are able to exist both in cyberspace and the physical world.

Omanyte, Omastar-Spiral Pokémon: This title refers to the spiral shape of these creatures’ shells, which are highly characteristics of ammonites and their ancestors, the nautiloids.

Aerodactyl, Dracozolt, Arctozolt, Dracovish, Arctovish-Fossil Pokémon: While Aerodactyl and the fossil Pokemon found only in the Galar region are obviously not the only type of Fossil Pokémon in existence, they were the very first of their kind to be resurrected and released into modern ecosystems in their respective locales, hence why they alone possess this species title.

Munchlax-Big Eater/Gluttonous Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Munchlax are effectively always hungry and will do just about anything to obtain food to try and satiate their otherwise unconquerable hunger.

Snorlax-Sleeping/Dozing Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Snorlax spend most of their life asleep and are almost impossible to wake without some form of extreme force or the right type of music, such as that produced by a Poké Flute.

Articuno-Freeze Pokémon: This title refers to the icy powers of Articuno and their ability to effectively freeze other Pokémon solid with a devastating combination of Mind Reader and Sheer Cold moves.

Mewtwo-Genetic Pokémon: This title refers to the manner in which Mewtwo was created and its ties to the process of genetic manipulation and recombining.

Mew-New Species Pokémon: This title is a misnomer, as it was only given to Mew upon its first modern discovery since it had been so elusive before that it had not been seen in millennia and was thus assumed to just be a myth, marking its discovery as one of finding a ‘never-before-seen’ organism.

Chikorita, Bayleef-Leaf Pokémon: This title refers to the large central leaf that is seen sprouting from the heads of these creatures.

Meganium-Herb Pokémon: This title is a misnomer as Meganium are not herbs nor do they produce any; the only explanation behind this title is that fallen petals from a Meganium can be crushed and turned into a medicinal powder much like an herb would.

Cyndaquil-Fire Mouse Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Cyndaquil look like mice (but are not that closely related, making this title a bit of a misnomer) and are recognized for their decent Fire-type powers.

Quilava, Typhlosion, Entei-Volcano Pokémon: In the case of Quilava and Typhlosion, this title refers to their sometimes explosive temper and capacity to utilize a surprisingly powerful Eruption attack late in life; for Entei, the title is mainly a reference to their legendary connections to volcanism.

Totodile, Croconaw, Feraligatr-Big Jaw Pokémon: This title refers to the disproportionally-large jaws possessed by these reptiles and their penchant for using their jaws to attack and dismember prey and opponents alike.

Sentret, Patrat, Hisuian Growlithe-Scout/Lookout Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these mammals are very cautious of their territory and will periodically observe their surroundings in order to spot predators and other threats before they get close enough to make a counterattack or escape impossible.

Furret-Long body/Long Torso Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Furret possess very long bodies and it is difficult to tell where their actual tails end relative to the length of their long, flowing body hair.

Hoothoot, Noctowl-Owl Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these birds are owls without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Ledyba, Ledian-Five Star Pokémon: This title refers to the five large spots on the backs of these insects as well as their general connection to starlight and the associated importance of these spots in their biology (at least in the case of Ledian).

Spinarak-String Spit/String-Spitting Pokémon: This title refers to a Spinarak’s penchant for creating and spitting out string from their mouths in order to build webs.

Ariados-Long Leg Pokémon: This title does not really fit Ariados too well, but it is nonetheless used in reference to their relatively long legs in comparison to the very short legs of Spinarak.

Chinchou-Angler/Anglerfish Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Chinchou are anglerfish, with their closest relatives being the footballfish.

Lanturn, Ampharos-Light Pokémon: This title refers to these creatures’ ability to light up a part of their bodies so it shines brightly even in the darkest of aquatic and terrestrial environments, standing out proudly as a beacon of electrical power in the inky darkness.

Togepi-Spike Ball Pokémon: This title refers to the overall shape of Togepi, as there are no other major distinguishing points to describe.

Togekiss-Jubilee/Blessing Pokémon: This title refers to Togekiss’ penchant for spreading joy and a blessing for peace wherever they fly if they feel that the creatures below them on the ground are doing their best to be as happy and peaceful towards each other as possible.

Xatu, Flygon-Mystic/Spirit Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are often connected to supernatural forces, with Xatu’s connection stemming from its ability to see into the future and Flygon’s title being earned as a result of its penchant for whipping up massive sandstorms with its wings and the singing noise that is created from sand grains rubbing against their exoskeleton (from which they have earned the nickname “The Desert Spirit”).

Mareep, Flaaffy-Wool/Fluffy Pokémon: This title refers to the light, fluffy fleece that grows on these beasts naturally.

Azurill-Polka Dot Pokémon-This title does not really describe Azurill very well and it is unknown how exactly it gained this title, as the only explanation that can be offered are the two small markings on their face that mark their cheeks.

Marill-Aqua Mouse/Water Mouse Pokémon: This title comes from the fact that Marill look very similar to mice in terms of their general appearance, though in truth they are not that closely related.

Azumarill-Aqua Rabbit/Water Rabbit: This title comes from the fact that Azumarill look very similar to rabbits in terms of their general appearance, though in truth they are not that closely related.

Bonsly-Bonsai Pokémon: This title comes from the fact that Bonsly resemble Bonsai trees that have been modified for human use, despite the fact that they are not plants at all.

Sudowoodo-Imitation Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Sudowoodo use imitation as their primary means of survival and are able to disguise themselves as trees surprisingly well for a Pokémon, though humans can still readily pick them out of a forest if they pay close attention to their body form or if it is raining outside.

Hoppip, Skiploom, Jumpluff-Cottonweed Pokémon: This title refers to these creatures’ close connection to plants like dandelions that are considered to be weeds (though they are technically wildflowers) and produce fluffy balls of seeds that rely on wind as the primary tool of dispersal.

Aipom, Ambipom-Long Tail Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these mammals possess long prehensile tails that are used as their primary means of physically interacting with the world around them.

Yanma-Clear Wing/Thin Wing Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that the wings of these insects are so thin and translucent that they are almost completely see-through.

Yanmega-Ogre Darner/Ogre Dragonfly Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are not ordinary dragonflies but monstrous beasts possessing incredible size and power.

Wooper, Quagsire-Water Fish Pokémon: Although Wooper at the very least sort of resemble fish due to their lack of upper limbs, this title is actually a misnomer as both of these creatures are salamanders.

Paldean Wooper-Poison Fish Pokémon: The issues with the title of normal Wooper apply here, but with Poison-types attributes added onto them due to their adaptation to life on land.

Clodsire- Spiny Fish Pokémon: Though not a fish as noted already, this title also refers to these creatures' capacity to stick their sharp-pointed ribs out of their backs to attack others with.

Murkrow, Sableye-Darkness Pokémon: For Murkrow, this title is merely used as a reference to their Dark-type powers and mischievous ways, whereas with Sableye this title is a descriptor for the most important factor that these creatures take into account when deciding where to live, as they are easily blinded by direct light.

Honchkrow-Big Boss Pokémon: This title refers to the overall behavior of these birds, as Honchkrow operate like stereotypical mob bosses and order around large flocks of Murkrow in a remorseless fashion to do their bidding, only getting involved in a fight if they absolutely have to.

Misdreavus-Screech/Night Cry Pokémon: The English translation of this species title is a bit of a misnomer, as these creatures cannot actually learn the Screech technique naturally; their more correct Japanese title references their use of screams and wails to frighten others.

Mismagius-Magical Pokémon: This title refers to the strange mix of psychic and spiritual energy used by these creatures (as well as Delphox), whose form is loosely described using the term ‘magic’.

Unown-Symbol Pokémon: This title refers to the resemblance these creatures bare to the Latin alphabet, which may not be a coincidence.

Wynaut-Bright/Jolly Pokémon: The English translation of this species title is a misnomer, as it does not really describe the true attributes of these creatures; their more accurate Japanese title refers to their exceptionally jolly dispositions.

Wobbuffet-Patience/Endurance Pokémon: The English species title for Wobbuffet is a slight mistranslation, as patience is not the best term to use for their behavior; endurance, on the other hand, directly references their inability to attack directly and their need to take punishment in order to deal any out courtesy of their Counter and Mirror Coat attacks.

Girafarig, Farigiraf-Long Neck Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are related to giraffes and possess a similarly long neck in terms of overall body proportions.

Pineco, Forretress, Burmy, Wormadam-Bagworm Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these insects are bagworms without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Dunsparce, Dudunsparce-Land Snake Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures possess a snake-like form and are recognized for their impressive digging abilities and capacity to move out of sight, both above and belowground, faster than their body form might otherwise suggest.

Gligar-Fly Scorpion/Flying Scorpion Pokémon: This title refers to the scorpion-like stinger Gligar possess at the ends of their tails as well as their capacity to seemingly fly, though in truth they cannot execute true flight and instead rely on gliding to move around.

Gliscor-Fang Scorpion Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that, just as with Gligar, these creatures possess a scorpion-like stinger at the end of their tail; in the case of Gliscor, however, their sharp fangs are much more characteristic of their daily feeding patterns and hunting abilities than their gliding abilities are.

Shuckle-Mold/Fermentation Pokémon-This title refers to the fact that Shuckle are considered to be sentient mold and are known for fermenting berries in their shells in order to create Berry Juice, a healing item that is exclusively associated with them.

Heracross-Single Horn Pokémon: This title refers to the single large horn that Heracross use as their primary means of offense.

Sneasel, Weavile-Sharp Claw/Claw Pokémon: This title refers to the sharp claws that are highly characteristic of these creatures.

Teddiursa-Little Bear/Small Bear Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Teddiursa are bears and are small in size.

Ursaring-Hibernator/Hibernation Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Ursaring hibernate just like regular bears and do so on a similarly-annual basis.

Slugma, Magcargo-Lava Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that the vast majority of these creatures’ bodies are made out of magma.

Swinub-Pig/Pig Boar Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Swinub are pigs, specifically a type of boar.

Piloswine-Swine/Wild Boar Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Piloswine are boars known for their wild temperaments.

Mamoswine-Twin Tusk Pokémon: This title refers to the two large tusk that characterize Mamoswine in comparison to their pre-evolved forms.

Corsola, Cursola-Coral Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Corsola are effectively living coral reefs with a distinct species of coral growing on them as part of a symbiotic relationship.

Remoraid, Octillery-Jet Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are gifted in using beam-based attacks and are able to spray their attacks from their mouths with considerable power and speed.

Delibird-Delivery/Courier Pokémon: This title refers to the behavior of Delibird that makes them so well-recognized, namely their penchant for carrying around food in their tails and offering it to those that are lost and starving.

Mantyke, Mantine-Kite Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are able to leap from the water and use their wide fins to glide in the air much like a kite.

Skarmory-Armor Bird Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Skarmory are covered from talon to beak in a durable metal shell.

Houndour, Houndoom-Dark Pokémon: This title refers to the Dark-type powers of these creatures without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Phanpy-Long Nose Pokémon: This title refers to the large trunk that Phanpy possess.

Donphan, Tyranitar-Armor Pokémon: This title refers to the thick, armored hide that these creatures possess and rely on for defense.

Stantler, Wyrdeer-Big Horn Pokémon: This title refers to the large horns that Stantler and Wyrdeer possess as part of their general anatomy.

Smeargle-Painter Pokémon; This title refers to the fact that Smeargle love to paint and are able to use their talents in the form of their Sketch technique to copy almost any move that the opposition may possess.

Raikou-Thunder Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Raikou carry a small thundercloud on their backs at all times.

Suicune-Aurora Pokémon: This title is a bit of misnomer as Suicune are more associated with clean water and the North Wind than they are auroras, but they may have earned this title as a result of their ability to naturally learn Ice-type attacks like Aurora Beam and Blizzard.

Larvitar-Rock Skin Pokémon: This title refers to the rocky outer skin possessed by Larvitar.

Pupitar-Hard Shell/Bullet Pokémon: This title refers to the thick shell that encapsulates Pupitar as well as their ability to fire themselves like a rocket by venting pressurized gas from inside their bodies.

Lugia-Diving Pokémon: This title refers to the impressive diving abilities of Lugia and their strong connection with the water.

Ho-Oh-Rainbow/Rainbow-Colored Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that a Ho-Oh’s feathers glow a rainbow of seven colors as a result of special crystals that develop naturally within their feathers.

Celebi-Time Travel/Time Traveling Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Celebi have the unique ability to travel through time.

Treecko, Grovyle: Wood Gecko/Forest Lizard Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are reptiles that have been infected with a parasitic plant and prefer to live in forests and some jungle environments.

Sceptile-Forest/Jungle Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Sceptile are strongly associated with forests and jungles and are almost never seen outside of these environments.

Torchic-Chick Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Torchic are young chicks without any other major distinguishing points to describe.

Combusken-Young Fowl/Chicken Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Combusken are mid-maturity chicken relatives.

Blaziken-Blaze/Raging Flame Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Blaziken are powerful Fire-types whose fiery powers are at their strongest when they are blazing furious or otherwise stressed under the heat of battle.

Poochyena, Mightyena, Drednaw-Bite Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that these creatures are best known for their tendency to use attacks like Bite and Crunch to attack prey and opponents alike.

Zigzagoon-Tiny Raccoon/Tiny Raccoon Dog Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Zigzagoon are canine-like animals that bear a body form and coloration pattern similar to what might be seen on a traditional raccoon.

Linoone-Rushing Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Linoone are characterized by a tendency to rush at extreme speeds at a prey item to catch it, even though they are at disadvantage because they can only dash in straight lines.

Lotad-Water Weed/Floating Weed: This title refers to the parasitic lily plant that grows out Lotad and effectively renders them little more than simple slaves to their plant’s needs.

Lombre-Jolly/Cheerful Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Lombre have a happy disposition and will usually try to mess with others just for the sake of having a bit of innocent fun.

Ludicolo-Carefree/Optimistic Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Ludicolo are always happy and try to do their best to bring smiles to everyone around them even in the worst of situations.

Seedot-Acorn Pokémon: This title refers to the fact that Seedot closely resemble acorns in appearance.

Nuzleaf-Wily/Malicious Pokémon: This title refers to the cunning and downright mean disposition of Nuzleaf towards anything but other Nuzleaf and their penchant for using traps to scare away intruders from their territory.

Professor Wormwood
A report on Pokemon Species Titles, Part 1 of 3. Enjoy.
© 2015 - 2024 Mutitus
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ZarxielZerg's avatar

Galarian Ponyta/Rapidash and Galarian Birds are missing... (Hisuian Voltorb line too, but that could be just because the page is not updated)