Willow Name for Afghan Hound

“Lapis” alludes to lapis lazuli, a deep-blue semi-precious stone treasured for millennia. This gemstone’s intense azure color symbolizes the sky, wisdom, and royalty in many cultures. The name exudes a sense of rarity, richness, and ancient beauty—much like a precious jewel pulled from the earth.

Lapis is the Latin word for “stone” (as in lapis lazuli, “blue stone”). The gemstone lapis lazuli has been mined in Afghanistan since antiquity. As a name, Lapis invokes the stone’s historic prestige and vivid beauty.

“Cypress” is the name of a tall, slender evergreen tree often associated with the Mediterranean and Middle East. In poetry, the cypress is a symbol of elegance and immortality, its form standing straight and proud through the seasons. The word itself evokes nature’s stately beauty and enduring life.

Cypress comes from the Greek name of the tree (kyparissos), ultimately from a pre-Greek origin. It entered English via Latin (cypressus). As a given name or word-name, it’s inspired by the tree’s imagery of long life and upright elegance in nature.

“Saffron” is a prized spice derived from the crocus flower, known for its vivid golden color and distinct aroma. The name is synonymous with rarity and luxury, as saffron strands have been worth more than their weight in gold. It conjures warmth, richness, and a touch of the exotic, given its central role in Eastern cuisine and dye.

Saffron comes from Persian via Arabic (za’farān) for the spice, associated with the color yellow. It entered English in the Middle Ages to describe the costly golden spice. As a given name, it’s a modern nature-inspired choice referencing the spice’s rich hue and value.

“Jasmine” is a fragrant flower known for its delicate white blossoms and intoxicating scent, often blooming at twilight. The name symbolizes purity, sweetness, and love in many cultures, with the flower’s aroma evoking romantic summer nights. Jasmine carries a sense of gentle beauty and enchanting allure.

Jasmine comes from the Persian word “yasmin” (via Arabic), meaning the jasmine flower. It spread to other languages through trade and poetry. In English, Jasmine has been used as a given name signifying the beloved flower known for beauty and fragrance.

“Oasis” denotes a fertile spot in a desert where water and greenery offer refuge to travelers. It conveys a sense of relief, tranquility, and life amid harsh surroundings. The word suggests sanctuary and calm—a hidden gem of comfort in the expanse of a wilderness.

Oasis comes from Greek via Egyptian, referring to a fertile area in a desert. In English, it’s used for actual desert oases and metaphorically for any place of relief. As a name, it’s unconventional and evocative, symbolizing life-sustaining calm.

“Poppy” is a bright red-orange flower known for its papery petals and vibrant color. The name exudes cheerfulness and energy, as poppies often symbolize remembrance and imagination. It’s a lively, friendly word that brings to mind fields of dancing wildflowers under the sun.

Poppy comes from Old English (popæg), denoting the flower. It has been used as a casual given name or nickname in English-speaking countries, especially in recent years, for its upbeat floral imagery and friendly sound.

“Mirage” refers to the optical illusion often seen in deserts, where light and heat create the appearance of water or distant objects that aren’t truly there. The word suggests something beautiful yet elusive—visible but intangible. It embodies mystery, allure, and the idea of fleeting vision in the vastness of a desert landscape.

Mirage is a French word (from Latin mirari, “to wonder”) for the desert optical illusion. Figuratively, it means something enticing but not quite real. As a name, it’s extremely rare and chosen for its dreamy, mysterious connotations.

Farah is a name that means 'joy' or 'happiness' in Persian and Arabic. It encapsulates a sense of delight and exuberance. As a word, it paints the picture of a bright spirit and a heart full of cheer, suggesting a presence that brings lightness and positive energy wherever it goes.

Farah originates in Persian and Arabic, meaning 'joy' or 'happiness.' It has been used as a female given name across the Middle East and Central Asia. One notable bearer was Empress Farah Pahlavi of Iran, which gives the name an added royal sheen.