Exploring the Naming Puns in Dragon Ball: Why Some Call Frieza 'Freezer'

The confusion around the name 'Frieza' often arises from the way the name is pronounced in different languages and due to phonetic interpretation. In the original Japanese version, Frieza's name is a pun based on cold temperatures, just like many other character names in the Dragon Ball franchise. Names in the series often reference various aspects of ice and cold, such as Cooler and King Cold, his family members. The pronunciation in some dubbed versions of the series can also contribute to this misunderstanding, leading fans to use the alternate name 'Freezer'.

Proper Transliteration and Pronunciation

Because 'Frieza' is a perfectly acceptable transliteration of his name in Japanese, denoted as フリーザ/Furiiza, it is understandable why some versions might render it as 'Freezer'. The pronunciation in some audiobooks or dubs might mistakenly lead to a slurring of words, suggesting that 'Frieza' sounds like 'fri-za' or even 'free-za'. This can explain why some fans refer to the character as 'Freezer'. For an even more accurate representation, it's worth noting that the name is officially written as 'Freeza'.

The Naming System in Dragon Ball

It's fascinating to explore how every name in Dragon Ball is part of a clever naming system. This system particularly shines when it comes to the characters of the Saiyan race. Each Saiyan name is based on a vegetable, a characteristic that adds depth and humor to the series. Take Frieza, for example; his name is a clear reference to a 'freezer', a place where things are kept cold. His family, Cooler and King Cold, also follow this naming pattern, hinting at the icy and cold aspects of their power and character.

For context, other Saiyan names equally follow this naming scheme:

Vegeta - 'Vegetable' Raditz - 'Radish' Nappa - 'Cabbage' Kakarot - 'Carrot'

This naming pattern not only adds a layer of complexity and humor but also reflects the origins and nature of these characters.

Language and Translation Variations

Quite often, the names of characters in Dragon Ball are subject to different translations, leading to variations in how they are spelled and pronounced. For instance, 'Kaio' might be called 'Lord of Worlds' or 'King Kai' depending on the version. Similarly, the author of this piece often uses a mix of Viz manga terminology and FUNimation subtitle terminology, but also has their own unique spellings that deviate from the norm. Such as using 'Kakarotto' instead of 'Kakarot' to make Vegetto's name more sensible, and 'Kafla' instead of 'Kefla' to reflect a combination of character elements.

This variety in naming and translation highlights the flexibility and diversity in the Dragon Ball fandom, where fans often use their own unique interpretations to enhance their understanding and enjoyment of the series.