Shikari Name for Afghan Hound

“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.

“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.

“Diana” is the Roman goddess of the hunt, wild animals, and the moon (equivalent to Greek Artemis). The name implies a protector of woodland creatures and a skilled huntress. It also means “divine” or “heavenly.” Diana carries an aura of lunar beauty and fierce independence, tempered with a nurturing guardianship of the natural world.

Diana comes from Latin, possibly related to dies (daylight), but in Roman mythology Diana was a moon goddess and huntress. The name has been used since antiquity, and as a given name it became widespread in the Roman and modern eras. It symbolizes purity, nature, and the fiercely independent spirit of a huntress.

“Blaze” refers to a bright flame or a sudden burst of fire. It also means to burn fiercely or to move rapidly (as in “blazing a trail”). The word radiates energy, intensity, and brilliance. It suggests something flashy and fast, leaving a vivid impression in its wake.

Blaze comes from Old English blæse (torch) and has meant fire or flame since the 17th century. As a given name or nickname, Blaze (or Blaise) has popped up in English with various spellings, but as a pet name it surged in the late 20th century, chosen for its fiery connotations and cool factor.

“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.

“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.

“Zahir” is an Arabic name meaning “manifest” or “brightly evident,” suggesting something that stands out with clarity and light. It can also connote “shining” or “radiant,” implying a brilliance that cannot be hidden. The name carries a sense of visibility and prominence, as if to describe one whose presence is unmistakable and illustrious.

Originating from Arabic, “Zahir” translates to “evident” or “manifest,” often interpreted as “outwardly shining.” It has been used as a given name across Persian and Arabic cultures, including historically by Afghan royalty like King Zahir Shah.