Why would someone name a planet Uranus?

Astronomer William Herschel discovered the seventh planet in 1781, but his choice for a name was rejected. Instead, Uranus was destined to cause snickers whenever someone says its name. read more

(Uranus is also the only planet to be named after a Greek god rather than a Roman one.) Bode's colleague, Martin Klaproth, supported his choice and named his newly discovered element "uranium. Most people are taught that the name of the tilted planet sounds like "your-anus," a pronunciation sure to elicit snickers. read more

These were the only planets that were bright enough for them to see. Later, when telescopes were used, other planets were discovered. Astronomers decided to continue naming the planets after Roman Gods with one exception - Uranus. Uranus was named after the Greek god of the sky. read more