The ancient Greeks called comets "kometai" (κομήται), which literally translates to "long-haired ones". This name comes from the comet's appearance, with its bright head and long, trailing tail resembling hair.

They also referred to comets as "astēr kometes" (ἀστὴρ κομήτης), meaning "hairy star". This name emphasizes their celestial nature.

The term "kometai" became the root for the modern word "comet".