Akira Toriyama created Dragon Ball in 1984.

Akira named most of the characters after puns on regular words, often involving food.

Here are some of the most memorable.
1. Kakarot = carrot.
2. Goku = sky.
3. Chi-Chi = breast.
4. Gohan = rice.
5. Goten = air or heaven.
6. Vegeta = vegetables.
7. Bulma = panties.
8. Trunks = men's underwear.
9. Master Roshi = turtle.
10. Puar & Oolong = varieties of tea.

11. Krillin = chestnut.
12. Tien Shinhan = fried rice.
13. Chiaotzu = dumpling.
14. Yamcha = dim sum.
15. Piccolo = small flute.
16. Raditz = radish.
17. Nappa = cabbage.
18. Broly = broccoli.
19. Mr. Satan and Videl both refer to the devil.
20. Cinderella's "Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo" song inspired the Majins.
Bibidi

Babidi
Majin Buu
21. The Ginyu Force is named after dairy products.

22. Frieza = freezer.
23. Mr. Popo = ?

For a complete list of names visit the Dragon Ball Wiki.