Blaze Name for Afghan Hound

“Dash” means to run or move quickly and suddenly. It also carries the sense of panache or flair (as in “dashing”). As a noun, a dash is a small amount or a punctuation mark, but as a name it’s about energetic movement. The word itself sounds swift and brief, mirroring its meaning.

Dash has been an English word since the 14th century (from Middle English daschen), initially meaning to strike or smash, later to rush. It became a casual given name or nickname (often for Charles, via “Chas” to “Dash”) in the 19th century. As a pet name, its popularity stems from the sense of spirited quickness.

“Chase” means to pursue or hunt, typically with speed. As a noun, it can refer to a hunt or an act of chasing. The word is straightforward and energetic, evoking the thrill of rapid pursuit. It also doubles as a common given name, connoting eagerness and drive.

Chase comes from Old French chacier (to hunt) and has been in English since the Middle Ages as a verb and noun. It became a surname (e.g., for hunters) and eventually a given name. In the context of a pet’s name, it plays on the verb, highlighting a love of pursuit.

“Arrow” is a projectile shot from a bow, characterized by its pointed tip and swift, straight flight. The word denotes speed, directness, and purpose. Arrows are symbols of focused energy and aim, cutting through the air unerring towards their target.

Arrow comes from Old English arwe (influenced by Old Norse ör), meaning the projectile shot from a bow. It’s been used in English for over a thousand years. As a modern given name or pet name, Arrow is uncommon but growing in use, chosen for its connotations of speed and direction.

“Archer” literally means a bowman—one who shoots arrows. It calls to mind medieval marksmen or anyone skilled in archery. The name implies precision, focus, and patience, as archers must concentrate to hit their target. It has a strong, straightforward feel, grounded in an ancient martial skill.

Archer comes from Old French archier, from Latin arcarius (from arcus, “bow”). It’s been an English surname and word since Norman times, meaning a bowman. As a first name, Archer has risen in use in English-speaking countries in the 21st century, chosen for its occupational charm and bold sound.

“Shikari” means “hunter” in Hindi/Urdu and other languages of the Indian subcontinent. It directly conveys the idea of one who hunts. The word carries with it the dust of the plains and forests of colonial-era hunts, as well as the thrill of tracking game. It’s an active term, rooted in tradition and skill.

Shikari comes from the Urdu/Persian word shikar, meaning “hunt,” plus an agentive suffix -i, literally “hunter.” It was adopted into English during the British colonial period in South Asia to describe native professional hunters or guides. It’s seldom used as a name, but when it is, it unmistakably labels the bearer as a hunter.

“Nimrod” is a biblical figure described as a mighty hunter and king. Over time, the name became synonymous with a skilled hunter. It conveys the image of someone powerful, perhaps a bit unruly, who is supreme in the field of the hunt. (Note: colloquially, it took on a joking connotation in modern American English due to Bugs Bunny using it ironically, but its original meaning is valorous.)

Nimrod appears in the Bible (Genesis 10) as a descendant of Noah known as “a mighty hunter before the Lord.” The name’s origin is unclear but possibly Mesopotamian. It became an epithet for skilled hunters. In mid-20th-century American slang, “nimrod” ironically came to mean a fool (thanks to a Bugs Bunny joke). However, many still recognize its original heroic connotation, making it an intriguing, layered choice of name.

“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.