Hank

Hank is a diminutive of Henry, from the Germanic Heimrich, meaning "home ruler" — combining heim, "home," and ric, "power." Hank developed as an American informal variant during the 19th century, taking on a distinctly frontier quality that set it apart from the more formal Henry. It carries the warmth and plainspoken directness of classic American English.

Hank ranks #168 among America's most popular pet names, and it belongs to the tradition of good, solid American names that wear their character openly. There is no pretension in Hank — it is the name of a companion who is dependable, good-humored, and content with simple pleasures. Hank suits the kind of pet who is fully present in every moment, who greets each morning with the same uncomplicated enthusiasm, and who has a steadiness that makes everyone around them feel more settled.