What does Zena mean and where does it come from?
Zena has its roots in Greek, where it often signifies 'of Zeus.' In other contexts, including Arabic, the name conveys notions of beauty and brilliance. It has been used in various cultures and gained popularity in different regions throughout history. Zena is also associated with notable figures su
Cultural significance
Zena has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of of zeus.
Peak popularity
Reached #555 in 1883 — currently #2206 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Zena?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Zena?
Zena works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Zena Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Zena Rose
Floral · soft ending
Zena Claire
French influence · crisp
Zena Jane
Literary · strong
Zena Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Zena right now?
Falling — down 65 spots — currently #2206 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2206 | 86 | ▼ down 65 · -4% births |
| 2022 | #2141 | 90 | ▲ up 87 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #2228 | 84 | ▼ down 47 · +2% births |
| 2020 | #2181 | 82 | ▲ up 782 · +41% births |
| 2015 | #2963 | 58 | ▲ up 779 · +41% births |
| 2010 | #3742 | 41 | ▼ down 483 · -13% births |
| 2005 | #3259 | 47 | ▼ down 137 · +7% births |
| 2000 | #3122 | 44 | ▼ down 879 · -25% births |
| 1995 | #2243 | 59 | ▼ down 159 · -6% births |
| 1990 | #2084 | 63 | ▼ down 273 · +2% births |
| 1985 | #1811 | 62 | ▲ up 234 · +22% births |
| 1980 | #2045 | 51 | ▲ up 840 · +104% births |
| 1975 | #2885 | 25 | ▼ down 1127 · -51% births |
| 1970 | #1758 | 51 | ▼ down 922 · -64% births |
| 1965 | #836 | 142 | — |
The story of Zena
Zena has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 5,563 total births recorded, Zena remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #736 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #2206 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Zena in 1883:
Zena by decade
Zena peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 77 | |
| 1890s | 133 | |
| 1900s | 155 | |
| 1910s | 347 | |
| 1920s | 432 | |
| 1930s | 229 | |
| 1940s | 207 | |
| 1950s | 283 | |
| 1960s ★ | 1,040 | |
| 1970s | 342 | |
| 1980s | 509 | |
| 1990s | 735 | |
| 2000s | 411 | |
| 2010s | 581 | |
| 2020s | 82 | |
💎With 5,563 total births, Zena is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Zena?
Famous people named Zena
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Zena (Greek poet or artist)
Zena helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
Z(
Zena (ancient philosopher)
Zena bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
Z(
Zena (Byzantine leader)
Zena used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
Z(
Zena (Greek poet or artist)
Zena helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Zena?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Zena also consider these
Common questions about the name Zena
What does the name Zena mean?
Zena means "Of Zeus" — a name rooted in Greek 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 Zena?
Zena is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Zena?
Zena originates from Greek tradition. Greek names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Zena?
Zena is a two-syllable name pronounced Z IY1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Zena a common or rare name?
Zena is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.