What does Zoe mean and where does it come from?
Zoe is of Greek origin, where it directly translates to 'life.' It has been used in the early Christian tradition, particularly in reference to early saints. The name saw a resurgence in popularity in the late 20th century, especially in English-speaking countries. It is known for its vibrant and li
Cultural significance
Zoe has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of life.
Peak popularity
Reached #29 in 2024 — currently #31 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Zoe?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Zoe?
Zoe works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Zoe Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Zoe Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Zoe Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Zoe Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Zoe Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Zoe Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Zoe right now?
Holding steady — currently #31 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #31 | 5,646 | ▼ down 2 · -2% births |
| 2024 | #29 | 5,733 | ▲ up 7 · +11% births |
| 2023 | #36 | 5,188 | ▲ up 2 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #38 | 5,011 | ▲ up 4 · +6% births |
| 2021 | #42 | 4,738 | ▼ down 1 |
| 2020 | #41 | 4,725 | ▼ down 8 · -22% births |
| 2015 | #33 | 6,041 | ▼ down 2 · -4% births |
| 2010 | #31 | 6,269 | ▲ up 27 · +26% births |
| 2005 | #58 | 4,962 | ▲ up 24 · +31% births |
| 2000 | #82 | 3,785 | ▲ up 94 · +119% births |
| 1995 | #176 | 1,726 | ▲ up 327 · +260% births |
| 1990 | #503 | 479 | ▲ up 335 · +147% births |
| 1985 | #838 | 194 | ▲ up 424 · +88% births |
| 1980 | #1262 | 103 | ▼ down 278 · -18% births |
| 1975 | #984 | 125 | — |
The story of Zoe
Zoe has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #30 in 2012. More than 137,177 babies have been named Zoe since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #341 in 1880 to #36 in 2023. Zoe is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Zoe in 2024:
Zoe by decade
Zoe peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 281 | |
| 1890s | 323 | |
| 1900s | 239 | |
| 1910s | 466 | |
| 1920s | 694 | |
| 1930s | 735 | |
| 1940s | 569 | |
| 1950s | 1,109 | |
| 1960s | 953 | |
| 1970s | 1,140 | |
| 1980s | 2,024 | |
| 1990s | 16,918 | |
| 2000s | 48,892 | |
| 2010s ★ | 58,093 | |
| 2020s | 16,158 | |
What are good nicknames for Zoe?
Famous people named Zoe
ZS
Zoe Saldana
American actress who stars in three of the highest-grossing films of all time: Avatar, Avengers, and Guardians of the Galaxy
ZK
Zoe Kravitz
American actress, model, and director known for Big Little Lies, Batman, and Kimi
ZB
Zoe Ball
British radio and television presenter, the first woman to host Radio 1's Breakfast Show
Z(
Zoë (Byzantine empress)
One of the most powerful women in Byzantine history, who ruled as empress in the 11th century
Z(
Zoe (Greek origin)
The name Zoë means "life" in Greek and was used in the Greek translation of the Biblical name Eve
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2025
Explore →What names sound and feel like Zoe?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Zoe also consider these
How is Zoe written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Zoe
What does the name Zoe mean?
Zoe means "Life" — 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 Zoe?
Zoe is currently ranked #36 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Zoe?
Zoe 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 Zoe?
Zoe is a two-syllable name pronounced ZOH-ee. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Zoe more of a girl or boy name?
Zoe is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.