Until recently, minor planet name citations were scattered in the astronomical literature, and the origin of many names remained obscure. IAU Commission 20 in 1988 established a study group to elucidate the meanings ofasteroid names. Under the chairmanship of the author, some 20 scientists took part in the preparation of the names database. In addition to being of practical value for identification purposes, minor planet names also provide a most interesting historical insight into the work of astronomers.