Zoe

“Life”

Greek origin · Girl name

♂ 0% boys♀ 100% girls

#36US 2023

5.2kBirths / yr

→Stable

137.2kAll-time births

📅 Since 1880🏆 21 years in top 1000.37% of births at peak

How to pronounce Zoe

ZOH·ee

/ˈzoʊ.iː/ · stress on ZOH · 2 syllables

“Life”

Greek origin · Girl name

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 #30 in 2012 — currently #36 in the US.

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How else can you spell Zoe?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Zoey

Spelling variant

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 Grace

How popular is Zoe right now?

Holding steady — currently #36 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1880–2023#36 · Top 0.03%

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
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	▼ down 22 · -5% births
1970	#962	132	▲ up 258 · +69% births
1965	#1220	78	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Zoe

Best Year2010Rank #31

Peak Count6,269

Average Rank#639

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1900 - 202328 years

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 2012:

Sophia Emma Isabella Olivia Ava

Zoe by decade

Zoe peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s 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	4,741

What are good nicknames for Zoe?

Common

ZoieZoy

Famous people named Zoe

Zoe Saldana

American actress who stars in three of the highest-grossing films of all time: Avatar, Avengers, and Guardians of the Galaxy

Zoe Kravitz

American actress, model, and director known for Big Little Lies, Batman, and Kimi

Zoe Ball

British radio and television presenter, the first woman to host Radio 1's Breakfast Show

Zoë (Byzantine empress)

One of the most powerful women in Byzantine history, who ruled as empress in the 11th century

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

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What names sound and feel like Zoe?

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

English · A meaningful name

American · God will increase

Zohe

Iran · light, brightness

Moe

Japanese · Japanese

How is Zoe written in other languages?

Ζωη

Greek

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 Z OW1 IY0. 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.