What does Zilla mean and where does it come from?
Zilla is of Hebrew origin and appears in the Old Testament as one of the wives of Lamech. The name Zilla refers to the idea of a shadow or shade, symbolizing protection or a covering. Its usage in the United States has increased as parents look for unique biblical names. Famous bearers include Zilla
Cultural significance
Zilla has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #1028 in 1882 — currently #738 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Zilla?
Zilla works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Zilla Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Zilla Rose
Floral · soft ending
Zilla Mae
Sweet · timeless
Zilla Claire
French influence · crisp
Zilla Jane
Literary · strong
Zilla Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Zilla right now?
Holding steady — currently #738 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #738 | 1,462 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #743 | 1,442 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #748 | 1,412 | ▲ up 3880 · +28140% births |
| 1945 | #4628 | 5 | ▼ down 2026 · -55% births |
| 1935 | #2602 | 11 | ▲ up 1108 · +57% births |
| 1930 | #3710 | 7 | ▼ down 1053 · -46% births |
| 1925 | #2657 | 13 | ▲ up 1353 · +86% births |
| 1920 | #4010 | 7 | ▼ down 1077 · -22% births |
| 1915 | #2933 | 9 | ▼ down 1348 · +29% births |
| 1905 | #1585 | 7 | ▼ down 493 · -30% births |
| 1895 | #1092 | 10 | ▼ down 30 · +25% births |
| 1890 | #1062 | 8 | — |
The story of Zilla
Zilla has been a beloved American name for over 142 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1882. With 288 total births recorded, Zilla remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1062 in 1890 to #738 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Zilla in 1882:
Zilla by decade
Zilla peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 18 | |
| 1890s | 52 | |
| 1900s | 27 | |
| 1910s | 63 | |
| 1920s ★ | 85 | |
| 1930s | 25 | |
| 1940s | 11 | |
| 1950s | 7 | |
💎Zilla has only 288 total recorded births since 1882 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Zilla?
Famous people named Zilla
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Zilla (historical community leader)
Zilla led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
Z(
Zilla (historical figure)
Zilla bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Zilla?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Zilla also consider these
How is Zilla written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Zilla?
Common questions about the name Zilla
What does the name Zilla mean?
Zilla means "Hebrew" — 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 Zilla?
Zilla is currently ranked #738 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Zilla?
Zilla 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 Zilla a classic or a modern name?
Zilla has Hebrew roots that go back thousands of years, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.
What are good nicknames for Zilla?
Zilla naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.