Happy

Happy derives directly from the Middle English happ, meaning "luck" or "fortune," from Old Norse happ, meaning "chance" or "good luck." The adjective "happy" emerged in the late 14th century to describe someone who is fortunate, then shifted to describe someone who feels pleasure or contentment. As a name, it is one of the most directly aspirational options available: this is what you want your companion to be.

Happy ranks #174 among America's most popular pet names, and it might be the most optimistic name on this list. Choosing Happy for a companion is making a small daily declaration: I see this creature and they make me glad. The name has a sunniness that can occasionally feel ironic — the notably serious or grumpy pet named Happy is a time-honored comedic tradition — but most of the time it is simply true. Happy suits companions who greet every moment with their whole bodies, tail and all.