Cleo

Cleo is a short form of Cleopatra, from the Greek Kleopatra, meaning "glory of the father" — combining kleos, "glory" or "fame," and pater, "father." It is most associated with Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of ancient Egypt, who has become one of the most romanticized historical figures of all time. As a standalone name, Cleo retains the Egyptian allure without the grandeur.

Cleo ranks #192 among America's most popular pet names, and it carries an exotic, ancient quality that suits companions who seem to regard their owners as devoted servants — which, let's be honest, is most of them. Cleo has a queenly ease that works beautifully for cats in particular, though the name belongs to any companion who accepts affection as their rightful due. It is short, punchy, and unforgettable — a name that lands with the confidence of someone who has always known exactly who they are.