Action Comics Reveals Who Coined the Name Superboy (and It’s Perfect)

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This year is proving to be exceptional for Superman, and DC is really going all out to satisfy both old and new fans in the comic books. While Superman navigates his current life challenges, Action Comics takes us on a trip down memory lane, showcasing the days when young Clark Kent made the decision to become a superhero. These are the Superboy years, and for the first time in Action Comics #1087, we see him in action in Metropolis. Here, young Clark had to battle an adversary at a Metropolis space museum. However, young Clark Kent didn’t stick around for press conferences, so no one knew what to call him. But in Action Comics #1088, we discover that a particular young woman, who was at The Daily Planet with her uncle, came up with a name for him. Unsurprisingly, this was Lois Lane.

In a significant gap, Lois Lane stands out as the chief character in the world of Superman. The affection Superman holds for Lois has been a consistent beacon throughout his life, and their professional dynamic – with Superman as a superhero and Lois as the journalist covering him – has consistently shaped their shared escapades. This isn’t the first time DC Comics has emphasized Lois Lane’s significance in Superman’s early career, but this edition of Action Comics beautifully reinforces it.

Lois Lane Should Always Be the Person to Coin Superman’s Name

The debate over whether Superboy holds a canonical status in the DC universe has been ongoing since the events of “Crisis on Infinite Earths”. Prior to “Crisis”, Superboy played a significant role in Superman’s history. Young Clark Kent embarked on his superhero journey in Smallville, where he encountered young Lex Luthor and eventually joined the Legion of Superheroes. The “Superboy” comic was one of DC’s top sellers, and fans eagerly followed his escapades with the Legion. However, following “Crisis”, DC chose to rewrite Superman’s history, effectively eliminating the era of Superboy. This state persisted until the “Infinite Crisis” (2005-2006), which saw the restoration of Superman’s tenure as Superboy. This phase lasted until the introduction of the New 52, during which Superman’s past as Superboy was once again expunged from canon, as it was established in this new universe that he didn’t begin his superhero career until he arrived in Metropolis. With the reintroduction of the post-“Crisis” Superman in the DC Universe, it remained uncertain whether he experienced his adventures as Superboy. The recent revival of Superman’s early years in “Action Comics” has brought joy to many fans, and the current narrative is fully exploiting this aspect of Superman’s history.

In the days before the “Crisis”, Clark’s family had chosen the name Superboy for him, which seems fitting. However, Action Comics #1088 alters this completely. The story begins in the offices of The Daily Planet, where Perry White is debating a suitable name for the young hero. They brainstorm several less-than-impressive names such as Stronglad, Strongboy, Mightor, Blue Star, and Wondro, with White insisting that the newspaper should be the one to name him. Perry points out that Superboy already had an “S” on his chest, and Lois Lane’s niece, who was at The Daily Planet for a ‘Take Your Kids to Work Day’, had coined the name Superboy. This is a brilliant touch. While more connections between Lois and Superman aren’t necessary at this point, it fits well because in many other versions of Superman’s history, Lois is the one who names him. This naming of Superboy by Lois is a nod to these instances, connecting post-“Crisis” ideas with the pre-“Crisis” idea of Superboy. It’s a clever callback and a moment that makes perfect sense. Superman values his supporting cast greatly, and this development ensures that Lois remains at the top of that list.

Lois Lane Is Always the Most Important Superman Character

Without a doubt, Lois Lane stands out as a crucial character in Superman’s entourage. Not only is she his wife, but she holds the unique position of being the one person he cherishes above even his parents. Throughout the years, she has significantly shaped how the public perceives him. It’s quite logical that she was the one who coined the name Superboy, a testament to her influence. What makes it even more fascinating is that she came up with this moniker during her middle school days, demonstrating the depth of her intellect and dedication from an early age.

It’s quite significant that renowned Superman expert Mark Waid, who has a deep history with Superman, is overseeing this change. Growing up with the pre-Crisis Superman, Waid has also played a pivotal role in shaping Superman’s character post-Crisis; he penned “Superman: Birthright”, a defining origin story for Superman. His decision to let Lois Lane come up with the name Superboy carries more weight than if any other writer had done it, and it’s another fitting Superman moment in a year filled with them.

Action Comics #1088 is on sale now.

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2025-07-18 15:10