Agnes

Agnes derives from Greek Hagne, from hagnos meaning 'pure, holy, chaste.' Saint Agnes of Rome, a third-century Christian martyr, made the name famous throughout the Christian world. It has a long history across European languages and was extremely popular in medieval England.

Agnes is officially back. After decades of feeling dusty, the name has been reclaimed by a generation that loves its vintage specificity — it's not just old, it's particular and characterful in a way that more generic names aren't. For pets, Agnes works especially well for cats with an imperious air, or for older dogs adopted later in life who seem to have arrived with their personality already fully formed. There's something deeply appealing about giving an animal a name with centuries of history and the self-assurance to carry it.