Is judgment passed on a thing based on its name, its designation, or both?

The name does not change the reality or ruling of a thing. The ruling on a thing is based on its designated meaning and reality. The consideration is given to the designations, not the names. Naming something contrary to its reality does not alter its ruling. As Ibn al-Qayyim said, "If changing names and forms necessitated changing rulings and realities, then religions would be corrupted, laws would be altered, and Islam would cease to exist." And as the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said when the Companions, may Allah be pleased with them, asked him to assign for them a Dhat Anwat: "You have said, by Him in whose hand is my soul, as the Children of Israel said to Moses: 'Make for us a god as they have gods.' He said: 'Indeed, you are a people who are ignorant.' You will certainly follow the ways of those who were before you."