言（yan）
Name meaning
言 (yan) means speech, words, statement or expression. In a given name it should suggest trustworthy speech, careful expression and a person whose words carry responsibility.
Practical naming use
Use 言 (yan) when the name should feel articulate, principled and thoughtful. It suits teaching, writing, law, diplomacy, public communication or a quiet person whose words are measured. Pair it with a character that adds sincerity, calm or wisdom.
Pair 言 (yan) with a character that keeps speech ethical, such as 言诚 (Yancheng), 言安 (Yanan) Yan'an, 言文 (Yanwen) or 言明 (Yanming). Avoid pairings that make the name sound argumentative or overly verbal.
言诚 (Yancheng): Yan contributes speech, words; Cheng adds sincere, honest.
Reference
Yijing, Yi, Xiang
Analects, Liren
Historical / name-use references
言偃 (Yan Yan)
Yan Yan, courtesy name Ziyou, was a disciple of Confucius recorded in Shiji's Zhongni dizi liezhuan. His name gives early and direct personal-name evidence for 言 (Yan).