Chester

Chester derives from the Latin castrum, meaning "fort" or "Roman military camp," and was the name of a Roman settlement in northwest England that became the city of Chester. As a given name, it became popular in America — particularly in the 19th century — through President Chester A. Arthur, who lent the name an air of dignified familiarity. It has a slightly old-fashioned solidity that has aged into charm.

Chester ranks #135 among America's most popular pet names, landing in the sweet zone of names that sound distinguished without taking themselves too seriously. It is the kind of name you give a pet with a bit of gravitas — the one who surveys the room from their favorite chair with the air of someone who has seen things. Chester has experienced a revival alongside other vintage names, fitting comfortably next to Archie, Otis, and Jasper in the lexicon of pets with personality.