Chip

Chip is a diminutive of Christopher, from the Greek Christophoros, meaning "bearing Christ" or "Christ-carrier," or of Charles, from the Germanic Karl, meaning "free man." As a standalone name, Chip shed all that etymology and arrived as something brightly cheerful — the name of a small, quick, good-natured character who is always full of energy and always good company.

Chip ranks #208 among America's most popular pet names, and it is impossible to separate entirely from the Disney chipmunk duo Chip and Dale, who have been a beloved part of animated culture since 1943. Chip is the sensible one — slightly more organized than his counterpart, though equally enthusiastic. The name suits small, energetic companions with a cheerful, busy quality: always in motion, always finding something interesting, and fundamentally pleased with life.