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 #773 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →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 Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Zola Rose
Floral · soft ending
Zola Claire
French influence · crisp
Zola Jane
Literary · strong
Zola Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Zola right now?
Holding steady — currently #773 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 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 | ▼ down 728 · -6% births |
| 1965 | #3150 | 16 | ▼ down 571 · -27% births |
| 1960 | #2579 | 22 | — |
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
| 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 | 273 | |
💎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 Z OW1 L AH0. 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.