What does Zola mean and where does it come from?
Zola has its roots in Hebrew and is derived from 'zole,' meaning ‘tranquil’ or ‘peaceful.’ Additionally, it has French origins, linking to the meaning of 'earth.' The name gained recognition in the United States during the late 20th and early 21st centuries as more parents have favored shorter, uniq
Cultural significance
Zola has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #365 in 1895 — currently #1338 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Zola?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Zola?
Zola works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Zola Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Zola Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Zola Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Zola Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Zola Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Zola Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Zola right now?
Falling — down 234 spots — currently #1338 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1338 | 167 | ▼ down 234 · -25% births |
| 2024 | #1104 | 222 | ▼ down 331 · -84% births |
| 2023 | #773 | 1,427 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #778 | 1,407 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #783 | 1,377 | ▲ up 151 · +404% births |
| 2020 | #934 | 273 | ▲ up 716 · +112% births |
| 2015 | #1650 | 129 | ▲ up 1921 · +193% births |
| 2010 | #3571 | 44 | ▲ up 463 · +26% births |
| 2005 | #4034 | 35 | ▲ up 496 · +35% births |
| 2000 | #4530 | 26 | ▲ up 6000 · +271% births |
| 1995 | #10530 | 7 | ▼ down 3570 · -22% births |
| 1985 | #6960 | 9 | ▲ up 3451 · +80% births |
| 1980 | #10411 | 5 | ▼ down 3228 · -29% births |
| 1975 | #7183 | 7 | ▼ down 3305 · -53% births |
| 1970 | #3878 | 15 | — |
The story of Zola
Zola has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 8,176 total births recorded, Zola remains relatively uncommon. Zola is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Zola in 1895:
Zola by decade
Zola peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 138 | |
| 1890s | 442 | |
| 1900s | 579 | |
| 1910s | 1,296 | |
| 1920s | 1,503 | |
| 1930s | 812 | |
| 1940s | 514 | |
| 1950s | 348 | |
| 1960s | 149 | |
| 1970s | 100 | |
| 1980s | 51 | |
| 1990s | 90 | |
| 2000s | 360 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,521 | |
| 2020s | 662 | |
💎With 8,176 total births, Zola is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Zola?
What names sound and feel like Zola?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Zola also consider these
Common questions about the name Zola
What does the name Zola mean?
Zola 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 Zola?
Zola is currently ranked #773 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 Zola?
Zola 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.
How do you pronounce the name Zola?
Zola is a two-syllable name pronounced ZOH-luh. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Zola more of a girl or boy name?
Zola is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.