Zarah

“to shine; to bloom” — Associated with meanings of brightness and radiance

Hebrew origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#1424US 2023

157Births / yr

↓Falling

2.1kAll-time births

📅 Since 196800.01% of births at peak

What does Zarah mean and where does it come from?

Zarah is of Hebrew origin, spelled as 'זָרַח'. It is often associated with meanings of brightness and radiance. In biblical contexts, Zarah refers to significant historical and religious figures, including Zerah, the son of Judah. The name is more commonly used in Jewish communities and has seen a r

Cultural significance

Zarah has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to shine; to bloom.

Peak popularity

Reached #1509 in 2020 — currently #1424 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Zarah?

Zarah works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Zarah Grace

How popular is Zarah right now?

Falling — down 201 spots — currently #1424 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1980–2023#1424 · Top 1.1%

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1424	157	▼ down 201 · -21% births
2022	#1223	198	▲ up 110 · +18% births
2021	#1333	168	▲ up 176 · +20% births
2020	#1509	140	▲ up 235 · +17% births
2015	#1744	120	▲ up 358 · +28% births
2010	#2102	94	▲ up 1578 · +135% births
2005	#3680	40	▲ up 21 · +14% births
2000	#3701	35	▲ up 1629 · +94% births
1995	#5330	18	▲ up 105 · +6% births
1990	#5435	17	▼ down 195 · +21% births
1985	#5240	14	▲ up 932 · +27% births
1980	#6172	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Zarah

Best Year2022Rank #1223

Peak Count198

Average Rank#3241

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1980 - 202312 years

The story of Zarah

Zarah is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1968. With 2,107 total births recorded, Zarah remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6172 in 1980 to #1424 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Zarah in 2020:

Olivia Emma Ava Charlotte Sophia

Zarah by decade

Zarah peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →

Decade	Births
1960s	10
1970s	35
1980s	117
1990s	204
2000s	504
2010s ★	1,097
2020s	140

💎With 2,107 total births, Zarah is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Zarah?

Common

ZarZarieZary

Famous people named Zarah

Zarah (historical figure)

Zarah bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.

Zarah (historical community leader)

Zarah led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.

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Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

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What names sound and feel like Zarah?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Zarah also consider these

Hebrew · radiance, brilliance

How is Zarah written in other languages?

זֵרַח

Ancient Hebrew

Common questions about the name Zarah

What does the name Zarah mean?

Zarah means "to shine; to bloom" — a name rooted in Hebrew tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Zarah?

Zarah is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Zarah have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the cultural origin of Zarah?

Zarah originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Zarah trending right now?

Zarah is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.

Is Zarah a common or rare name?

Zarah is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.