Here's how to tell:
* Proper Noun: A proper noun is a specific name for a person, place, or thing. It is always capitalized.
* Examples: John, London, Amazon River, Toyota
* Common Noun: A common noun is a general name for a person, place, or thing. It is not capitalized.
* Examples: boy, city, river, car
So, "name" by itself is a common noun. It's a general word for any label or identifier. But if you use a specific name, it becomes a proper noun:
* Common Noun: What is your name?
* Proper Noun: My name is John.
Let me know if you have a specific name in mind, and I can tell you if it's a proper noun!