Altair Name for Afghan Hound

“Sirius” is the brightest star in the night sky, often called the Dog Star, located in the constellation Canis Major. The name means “scorcher” in Greek, referencing its brilliance. It represents luminosity, guidance (as it was important in ancient navigation), and a bit of canine cosmic lore given its nickname and place in myth.

Sirius comes from Greek seirios (“glowing” or “scorching”). It’s been used to refer to the brightest star since antiquity (integral to Egyptian and Greek calendars and myths). As a name, it’s rare but recognized, carrying the weight of astronomy and legend (like the Harry Potter character).

“Nova” means “new” in Latin, but in astronomy, a nova is a star that suddenly becomes dramatically brighter before fading again over weeks or months. The name carries connotations of brightness, surprise, and new beginnings. It feels modern, energetic, and full of light.

Nova comes from Latin for “new.” It was first used in the astronomical sense in the 17th century (short for stella nova, “new star”) to describe stars that suddenly brighten. As a name, Nova has been around since the 19th century but has become especially popular in recent years, denoting newness and brilliance.

“Cosmo” stems from the Greek word kosmos, meaning “order” or “universe.” It suggests the vastness of space or a harmonious order of the world. In everyday use, it also carries a playful, upbeat vibe (possibly due to characters like Cosmo Kramer from Seinfeld). The name balances cosmic grandness with a quirky, friendly sound.

Cosmo comes from Greek kosmos (“order, world, universe”). It became a given name via saints like Cosmas and through Italian influence (Cosimo). In English-speaking areas, it’s rare but not unheard of (Cosmo was a 19th-century fad among upper crust families). It suggests both the cosmic and the sophisticated (as in “cosmopolitan”).

“Stella” means “star” in Latin. It evokes imagery of the night sky filled with sparkling points of light. Over time, the name has come to symbolize a person who shines brightly or stands out. It has a classic, almost old-Hollywood glamour to it (think Stella in Tennessee Williams’ work or famous bearers of the name).

Stella is Latin for “star” and has been used as a given name since at least the 16th century (notably by Sir Philip Sidney in his poem collection Astrophel and Stella). It gained steady popularity in English thereafter. It directly references the stars, implying brightness and beauty.

“Vega” is the name of one of the brightest stars in the sky, in the constellation Lyra. The name comes from Arabic and means “swooping eagle.” Vega is often associated with the Lyre (harp) due to its constellation, blending imagery of a flying predator with harmonious music. It’s a short name that sounds both strong and melodious.

Vega comes from the Arabic phrase an-nasr al-waqi‘, “the falling/swooping eagle.” Adopted into Western star charts as Vega, it’s been used as a star name for centuries. As a personal name, it’s more common as a surname or in cultures like Spanish (meaning “meadow” there), but in English it’s rare and highlights the star’s significance. It evokes brightness and a hint of music (with its constellation Lyra).

“Apollo” is a Greek god associated with the sun, music, and prophecy, among other domains. The name has come to represent someone who is godlike in beauty or talent. It radiates a sense of strength, enlightenment (as Apollo brings the day), and artistic grace. Apollo as a concept blends power with refinement.

Apollo’s exact origin is uncertain, possibly pre-Greek, but it was borne by one of the chief deities of the Greek and Roman pantheons. The name entered common usage in the Western world through art and literature (and modern events like the Apollo moon missions). As a dog’s name, it connotes commanding beauty and brilliance.

“Aero” stems from the Greek prefix for “air,” often used to denote something aerodynamic or air-related. As a standalone word, it suggests flight, lift, and speed through the atmosphere. It has a modern, sleek feel, evoking images of planes, arrows, or any object cutting swiftly through air.

Aero comes from the Greek root “aēr” meaning “air.” It appears in English as a prefix (aerodynamic, aeroplane). As a given name or nickname, Aero is modern and rare, chosen for its connection to air and speed.

“Bolt” refers to a lightning bolt—sudden, electric, and incredibly fast. It’s also a verb meaning to run off swiftly. The word carries connotations of raw power and split-second speed, leaving a vivid impression like a flash of lightning across the sky.

Bolt is an English word with Old English origins (bolt meaning arrow). It came to denote lightning due to the arrow-like speed and shape of a lightning flash. As a name, especially for pets, it highlights swiftness and striking energy.