Here we have the complete list of Santa’s reindeer names. This list includes the meaning and characterizations of each of Santa Claus’ reindeer. Names, personalities, origin stories are also included. After all, how could we not be curious about the names of these creatures that help Santa deliver presents? Everybody, regardless of their religion or place in this world, has heard of Christmas. It’s one of those major holidays that the entire human population celebrates, or at least hears about. Kids, who live in tropical weathered countries, even ask their parents “are reindeer real?” because of the famous Christmas deers that pull Santa and his sleigh up above the sky.
Of course, real reindeer don’t fly up in the sky and can travel all around the world in one night. If you’ve seen pictures of reindeers, you would know that they look docile. Reindeer merchandise, such as reindeer slippers, sweaters, and even TV shows, are always shown during the holidays. But what is the name of Santa’s reindeer that lights up his way? Or better yet, what are all their names?
The Origin of Santa’s Reindeer
Before we go to the list of Santa’s reindeer names, we should first know the origins of Santa’s reindeer. The relationship with the famous “Santa sleigh” and reindeer began with “A visit from St. Nicholas” poem from 1823. Santa’s reindeer (and reindeer alone) symbolize safe travels and endurance because of their ability to keep people safe during their winter travels.
How many reindeer are there? The rangifer tarandus was split into two subspecies: caribou and the reindeer, with their difference being the other one was domesticated.
List of Santa’s Reindeer Names in Order
So what are Santa’s reindeer’s names? Here we have all the names of all the famous Christmas reindeer that pull Santa with their magical flying powers, their personality, the meaning of their names, and reindeer pictures in between.
Dasher
Dasher the reindeer is the fastest of Santa’s reindeer. Santa originally placed Dasher as the last in the line, a high honor, as he was the one leading the crew on their mission to send presents. The problem with Dasher was that he moved too quickly, not noticing that the rest of the group was struggling or too tired to continue. He is said to brag often about his speed, and confidently skips training.
Dasher is a term used to describe a flamboyant or loud person. At the same time, to dash is to travel haphazardly. Both these definitions fit Dasher well with his overconfident personality and gift of speed.
Dancer
Out of all on the list of Santa’s reindeer names, Dancer is the most graceful. She is said to be very talented in dancing and loves to perform for her fellow reindeers and other audiences. She was even invited to form a contract in a broadway but chose the job to be with Santa, as it was her dream.
Her twin is Prancer, and despite her gentle movements, Dancer is strong enough to pull the sled on her own. In order to work for Santa, she graduated from the Reindeer Aviation Academy.
Prancer
Just like Dancer, Prancer was originally thought to be a boy. Both Prancer’s male and female counterparts are incredibly vain. Santa has had to pry her away from the mirror as she constantly preens herself and polishes her horns. Prancer is often seen beside Dancer, who is tasked by Santa to watch over her during their travels.
To prance is to move in an exaggerated or energetic way. A prancer, by definition, is a passionate horse. The word prancing is also a synonym for frolicking. Prancer’s personality fits her name well, as she is often distracted by her own image.
Vixen
Vixen is a rather strange reindeer name, but fits this deer quite nicely. She is described as one of the most beautiful looking reindeers and was even on the cover of a fictional magazine called Reindeer Monthly as “the most beautiful reindeer of all time.” Vixen is also called the Pioneer. Before scientists concluded the real gender of all of Santa’s reindeer, Vixen was thought to be the only female. This made her work harder than any of the other reindeer.
Cupid, a fellow reindeer of Santa, is head over heels for Vixen. He finds her personality and elegance alluring when flying. Vixen is aware of Cupid’s feelings and enjoys the attention. The name Vixen suits her because it means a spirited woman, particularly a voluptuous one.