Creative Domain Hacks for Registering Fun and Memorable URLs

A memorable URL can make or break your online brand.

If you want to stand out in a crowded digital space, you need more than just another .com domain. You need creativity.

Short, punchy, and clever domain names catch eyes and linger in people’s minds. They become easy to share, simple to say, and fun to type.

That’s the beauty of creative domain hacks.

But what makes these URLs so valuable?

• Easy to remember and share, even out loud
• Perfect for when your favorite .com is gone
• Unique, playful, and packed with personality
• Shorter links that fit anywhere — socials, ads, print
• A built-in story or conversation starter

Still, you might wonder if domain hacks are just for big brands or tech insiders. Maybe you’ve heard they’re tricky or costly, or you think all the good ones are taken.

The truth is, anyone can create a memorable web address with the right approach.

So why settle for ordinary? With a little creativity, your next URL can say more — without saying too much.

Scroll down and start building a URL people remember.

What Is a Domain Hack?

A domain hack is when you get creative with your web address by using the domain extension — the letters that come after the dot, like .com, .io, or .me — as part of the actual word or phrase you want to spell out.

So instead of registering delicious.com, you could register del.icio.us, using the .us extension for United States. The whole web address becomes the actual word.

This is possible because of sub domains

You’re essentially hacking the traditional use of domain extensions for a more playful, catchy, and memorable effect.

Why Your URL Matters More Than You Think

Your URL is the front door to your online world.
It’s the first thing people see, type, and remember.

• Short, clever, and fun URLs help your brand look modern, creative, and approachable.
• They’re easier to type and less likely to be misspelled.
• You can share them verbally—on podcasts, radio, or in real life—and people will remember them.

“A creative domain name is like a great handshake. It’s quick, unique, and leaves a lasting impression.”

You want every share, mention, and click to count. Domain hacks give you an edge — especially when the perfect .com is long gone.

Domain Hacks You Must Try; for Fun

1) Use Country Code TLDs to Complete Words

Most people only know the common extensions like .com or .org.

But there’s a huge list of country code TLDs (top-level domains) like .ly for Libya, .io for British Indian Ocean Territory, or .me for Montenegro.

You can use these to finish off words and create new combinations.

For example, bit.ly (for link shortener Bitly) uses the .ly TLD to turn “bitly” into a single word.

Some clever ccTLD examples:

• instagr.am (Armenia’s .am finishes Instagram)
• about.me (Montenegro’s .me finishes “about me”)
• blo.gs (South Georgia’s .gs forms “blogs”)
• last.fm (Micronesia’s .fm gives “lastfm” a radio twist)

Useful ccTLDs for domain hacks:

• .me (Montenegro)
• .io (British Indian Ocean Territory) — now popular in tech
• .ly (Libya)
• .so (Somalia)
• .ai (Anguilla) — great for artificial intelligence brands
• .tv (Tuvalu) — ideal for video or streaming platforms
• .to (Tonga) — makes a great call to action

Some country code domains have restrictions. Always check if registration is open globally before you commit.

2) Blend the Brand Name and Extension

Don’t just treat the extension as an afterthought — make it part of your name.

By chopping the last few letters off your brand and letting the TLD finish the word, you get a domain hack that is both short and playful.

Example hacks:

• pla.net (makes “planet”)
• tim.es (makes “times”)
• runn.er (makes “runner”)
• co.de (makes “code”)

How to come up with ideas:

• Write your brand or project name on paper.
• See if any part of it matches a real domain extension.
• Experiment with removing vowels or consonants and letting the TLD complete the word.

Or better yet, use AI.

You can use this trick to create memorable, easy-to-share web addresses for almost any brand. It’s especially powerful for apps, personal websites, portfolios, and side projects.

3) Incorporate Action or Niche Words

Sometimes, your entire brand name won’t fit, but you can use a TLD to create an action word or phrase that instantly tells visitors what you do.

Examples:

• build.it (for a construction or builder app, using Italy’s .it)
• write.so (for writing tools, using Somalia’s .so)
• learn.ai (for an AI education site, using Anguilla’s .ai)
• chat.in (for chat services, using India’s .in)
• coach.me (for coaching or habit apps, using Montenegro’s .me)

Why this works:

You create instant clarity about your service or product. You also end up with a call-to-action-style domain that sticks in people’s minds.

“When you use your domain name as a verb, people start to use your brand as a verb too.”

4) Use Domains As Verbs or Phrases

You don’t have to stick with nouns. A domain hack can become a full phrase — even a command or invitation.

Examples:

• join.me (now owned by GoTo for video meetings)
• about.me (personal landing pages)
• ask.fm (Q&A social network)
• lets.go (travel service)
• connect.to (easy-to-remember connection platform)

Benefits:

• People remember phrases more than single words.
• It sounds natural when you say it out loud or mention it on a podcast or video.

If you want your brand to feel like a movement, or your campaign to feel like an invitation, this approach works wonders.

5) Shorten Long Names With Clever Cuts

Long, clunky domain names are hard to type and forgettable.

A domain hack lets you slice your name in half and make it short, sweet, and shareable.

Examples:

• read.it (instead of “readitnow.com”)
• go.to (instead of “gotoportal.com”)
• dev.to (popular developer platform)

Short domains fit better on business cards, social media bios, and digital ads. They’re less likely to be misspelled and work well as QR codes.

Real-World Case Study

The developer site DEV Community (dev.to) used this trick. Instead of buying an expensive, long .com domain, they used .to to create a domain that’s both a call to action and a unique brand asset.

6) Combine Subdomains for Multi-Layer Hacks

For even more creativity, use subdomains (the part before your main domain) to create layered, catchy URLs.
This technique is especially useful for marketing campaigns, temporary projects, or content hubs.

Examples:

• shop.on.my (where “on.my” uses Malaysia’s .my)
• files.go.to (where “go.to” uses Tonga’s .to)

How to pull it off:

• Choose a root domain hack that’s short and meaningful.
• Add subdomains for each part of your business, like blog., shop., files., or promo.

This approach lets you organize your site in a fun way while keeping every URL on-brand.

7) Think Non-English TLD Meanings

Some domain extensions aren’t just country codes — they’ve become industry shorthand or a clever play on words.

Examples and meanings:

• .ai — Stands for artificial intelligence. Popular with tech, machine learning, and startup communities.
• .io — Used by developers and SaaS companies. IO stands for “input/output.”
• .tv — Popular for video streaming, television, and content creators.
• .fm — Great for music, audio, and podcast sites.

You can use these TLDs to instantly communicate your industry or focus area—even if you have nothing to do with the original country.

8) Use Domain Suggestion Tools

Coming up with domain hacks can take time, but there are tools that make it easier.

Plug in your keyword or idea, and they’ll suggest possible hacks from available domains.

Top tools:

• Namecheap Beast Mode — Lets you search in bulk and find creative combos.
• Lean Domain Search — Matches your keyword with hundreds of possible hacks.

Using these tools saves time, sparks new ideas, and helps you check availability instantly.

9) Play With Misspellings and Homophones

Some of the best domain hacks use intentional misspellings or sound-alike words (homophones).

This makes your domain stand out but keeps it easy to say, share, and remember.

Examples:

• skript.io (for a scripting platform, using .io)
• phun.ly (for a fun site, using .ly)
• kwik.so (for a “quick” tool, using .so)

Tips for using this approach:

• Keep it simple—don’t overcomplicate the spelling or meaning.
• Say the domain out loud to make sure it’s clear what word you’re hacking.

10) Combine a name and a tld to form your brand

Here, you’re combining two separate domains to form a phrase or brand name across two URLs.

Each domain on its own won’t say the full word, but when seen together (say in a banner or ad), they complete a memorable idea.

Example: Live Stream

Instead of using a long, predictable URL like livestream.com, you could buy:

• live.st (using the .st TLD from São Tomé and Príncipe) or
• ream.com or ream.co

So when used side-by-side in a campaign, they visually read as:

live.st + ream = livestream

This works best in branding, splash screens, or printed materials. It’s a visual hack, not a technical one — the domains still operate separately.

More examples:

• join.me + now.com → “Join me now”
• go.to + kenya.co.ke → “Go to Kenya”
• try.it + free.today → “Try it free today”

You’re not connecting them into one functioning URL. You’re creatively pairing domains to build a phrase in people’s minds.

How to Brainstorm Your Own Domain Hacks

Ready to come up with your own?

Here’s a simple, actionable process to get started:

1) Write Down Your Brand, Niche, or Project Name

Break your name into chunks. Look for natural breakpoints where you can use an extension to complete the word.

2) Check Out Available TLDs

There are over 1,500 TLDs available today!
Browse a full list of TLDs and see if any match part of your name, product, or slogan.

3) Experiment With Cutting and Splicing Words

Try removing vowels, doubling up letters, or splitting the name where it feels natural.

• Example:
  • “Consultant” → consul.tant
  • “Adventure” → adven.ture

4) Use a Domain Suggestion Tool

Domain name generators let you enter your ideas and instantly show what’s available.

5) Test With Friends

Say your favorite picks out loud.
Share them in a text.
Get quick feedback.
If your friends “get it” without explanation, you’ve found a winner.

Table of Common Domain Hacks

Here’s a quick reference for some popular hacks you can try:

Hack style	Example	Explanation
Country ccTLD	writ.es	Uses Spain’s .es for “writes”
Phrase/Verb	call.me	Easy-to-remember personal link
Tech/AI/Startup	bots.ai	Modern, futuristic brand feel
Shortening	link.to	Perfect for link shorteners
Misspelling	phun.ly	Adds a playful, casual tone

Mistakes to Avoid With Domain Hacks

As fun as domain hacks are, there are some pitfalls you’ll want to dodge:

• Ignoring local restrictions:
  Some country TLDs have rules. Libya’s .ly has content restrictions. Always check terms before you buy.
  
• Choosing confusing or hard-to-type domains:
  If it’s not obvious how to spell or say your URL, people will forget or mistype it.
  
• Picking a TLD with a bad reputation:
  Some TLDs are often used for spam. Stick to respected extensions if possible.
  
• Not renewing your registration:
  Hack domains can be in high demand. Don’t let your registration lapse.
  
• Assuming every TLD is globally accessible:
  Some registrars may block certain TLDs in your region.

Tips for Securing and Using Your Domain Hack

• Register similar spellings to protect your brand from imitators.
• Redirect old domains: If you own the .com version, point it to your new domain hack.
• Check social media handles: You’ll want the same name across platforms.
• Monitor for trademark issues: Some domains could cause legal issues if your hack matches a big brand.

Real-World Success Stories

Bitly: bit.ly

Bitly is one of the most recognized link shorteners, and its domain hack made the name memorable, short, and perfect for sharing on Twitter or SMS.

About.me: about.me

About.me used a domain hack to turn a generic phrase into a powerful, personal brand platform.
Millions of users now have a short, memorable link for their digital business card.

Infact, why not check mine while you’re at it: https://about.me/mysson/

DEV: dev.to

The DEV Community, a massive platform for developers, used the .to TLD to get a short, action-focused brand name without paying millions for the .com.

Domain Hacks (FAQs)

Can I use any TLD for a domain hack?
No. Some TLDs have restrictions, high prices, or special requirements. Always read the rules before you buy.

Do domain hacks rank well in Google?
Yes, if you have great content and proper SEO. The extension (TLD) doesn’t matter much to search engines.

Are domain hacks more expensive?
Some, like .ai or .io, can cost more than common TLDs, but many ccTLDs are very affordable.

What if my domain hack idea is taken?
Try a different extension, change the order of words, or use a creative misspelling.

50 Creative Domain Hack Ideas (Ready for Inspiration)

Here are 50 ideas for you to riff on or register.

You’ll need to check availability, but these examples show how to mix and match your way to a memorable domain:

Idea	TLD	Possible Use
movi.es	.es	Movie site
re.ad	.ad	Reading app
star.tup	.up	Startup showcase
bloggi.ng	.ng	Blogging tools
shoppi.ng	.ng	Online store
cook.it	.it	Recipe blog
crea.tor	.tor	Creator portfolio
friend.ly	.ly	Social platform
edit.or	.or	Writing tools
digit.al	.al	Digital marketing
runne.rs	.rs	Running community
inspi.re	.re	Inspiration / motivation
fashi.on	.on	Fashion brand
heal.th	.th	Health blog
eve.nt	.nt	Event website
artis.tic	.tic	Art or design
bre.ad	.ad	Food or bakery site
newsle.tt	.tt	Newsletter tools
pathwa.y	.y	Guidance platform
vot.er	.er	Polling or voting app
winn.er	.er	Competitions site
fix.er	.er	Repair service
playli.st	.st	Music platform
futu.re	.re	Futurism content
anima.te	.te	Animation tools
priva.te	.te	Privacy app
launch.it	.it	Startup launcher
sketch.io	.io	Design or drawing app
stream.io	.io	Live streaming
tap.pe	.pe	Mobile tap-to-pay app
tea.ch	.ch	Education
crea.te	.te	Creative agency
musi.ca	.ca	Music blog
fitne.ss	.ss	Fitness app
beco.me	.me	Self-development
medit.at	.at	Meditation app
part.y	.y	Event or party site
acti.ve	.ve	Fitness or activity app
sleep.y	.y	Sleep tracking
choco.la	.la	Chocolate or desserts
print.er	.er	Printing service
explor.er	.er	Travel
startu.ps	.ps	Startup resource
focus.io	.io	Productivity tool
simplifi.es	.es	Minimalism / lifestyle blog
analy.tics	.ics	Analytics tool
shor.ty	.ty	URL shortener
minim.al	.al	Minimalist design
givea.way	.way	Giveaway site
smart.ly	.ly	EdTech platform

*Use these as creative fuel. Check availability and experiment with different words, spellings, and

TLDs. Your next big brand could be hidden in one of these hacks.*

Final Tips for Making Your Domain Hack Work

Use it everywhere: Put your domain hack on business cards, social media, email signatures, and every piece of content.
Make it part of your story: Tell people how you came up with the hack. It’s a conversation starter.
Redirect if necessary: If you already have a .com, point it to your new hack for flexibility.
Renew your domain every year: Never risk losing a great hack to someone else.
Track performance: Use analytics tools to see how your new domain is performing and tweak your marketing accordingly.

Ready To Register Your Own Domain Hack?

If you’re feeling inspired to craft a clever, unforgettable domain — don’t wait.

Head over to Truehost Domains and search for your perfect match.

Whether you’re going for something quirky like bri.ng, bold like crea.te, or short and sleek like go.africa, you’ll find everything you need to get started.

• Instant domain availability checks
• Access to hundreds of global and country-code TLDs
• Affordable prices starting from KSh 197 for some domains
• Free DNS management and WHOIS privacy on select extensions

You don’t need a massive budget or a global brand to own a brilliant domain.
You just need an idea — and a place to bring it to life.

👉 Try your first domain hack now at truehost.co.ke/domains
Because great ideas deserve great names.