Looking for a unique and meaningful baby name that starts with the letter Z? Whether you’re drawn to names that sound strong, poetic, or culturally rich, names beginning with “Z” offer a variety of options for both boys and girls. From modern American favorites to classic and rare gems, here’s a curated list of 40+ American baby names starting with Z—each with its origin, meaning, and style to help inspire your decision.
Z Baby Names for Girls
1. Zara
Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
Meaning: Princess, blossom
Style: Elegant and timeless
Zara has grown in popularity due to its regal tone and global appeal. It’s chic, short, and easy to pronounce across languages.
2. Zaylee
Origin: Modern American
Meaning: Invented name, possibly derived from Kaylee
Style: Trendy and modern
Zaylee is a sweet, melodic name often used in the U.S. and has a contemporary vibe.
3. Zena
Origin: Greek
Meaning: Hospitable
Style: Classic with a modern twist
Zena feels powerful yet graceful, reminiscent of the warrior princess vibe.
4. Zaria
Origin: Arabic, Slavic
Meaning: Rose, princess
Style: Feminine and regal
Zaria combines beauty with strength and has multicultural significance.
5. Zadie
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: Princess, lucky
Style: Vintage revival
Zadie is a retro-chic name that’s making a comeback among modern parents.
6. Zella
Origin: Yiddish
Meaning: Blessed
Style: Old-fashioned and spiritual
Zella is a warm and gentle name with deep roots in faith and tradition.
7. Zoey
Origin: Greek
Meaning: Life
Style: Popular and lively
Zoey is a beloved name across America and has stayed in the top baby name charts for years.
8. Zinnia
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Flower name
Style: Nature-inspired and artistic
Zinnia is perfect for parents who love botanical names and bright, colorful imagery.
9. Zuleika
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: Brilliant beauty
Style: Exotic and lyrical
Zuleika is elegant and rich in cultural depth, making it a unique choice for a baby girl.
10. Zariah
Origin: Modern American
Meaning: Derived from Zaria, often considered a blend of names
Style: Fresh and urban
Zariah is a modern take on traditional Z names, gaining traction in American baby name trends.
11. Zabrina
Origin: Latin
Meaning: Legendary princess
Style: Whimsical and classic
Zabrina feels like a unique mix of Sabrina and Zara, offering charm and mystique.
12. Zaya
Origin: Arabic, African
Meaning: Hope, faith
Style: Short and powerful
Zaya is a strong yet soft name that feels spiritual and uplifting.
13. Zephyra
Origin: Greek
Meaning: West wind
Style: Mythological and poetic
Zephyra has a soft, airy sound and is perfect for a nature-loving family.
14. Zemira
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: Song
Style: Melodic and spiritual
Zemira is a rare and lyrical name often appreciated in religious and musical families.
Z Baby Names for Boys
15. Zane
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: God is gracious
Style: Cool and edgy
Zane is a sleek, modern name that works well in all social settings.
16. Zayden
Origin: Modern American
Meaning: Invented name
Style: Contemporary and energetic
Zayden is part of the trendy “-ayden” group and is especially popular in the U.S.
17. Zachary
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: The Lord has remembered
Style: Traditional and classic
Zachary is timeless, often shortened to Zack or Zach for a laid-back feel.
18. Zeke
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: God strengthens
Style: Strong and punchy
Zeke is often a short form of Ezekiel, but it stands well on its own.
19. Zephyr
Origin: Greek
Meaning: West wind
Style: Artistic and nature-inspired
Zephyr has a calm yet powerful aura, ideal for parents who want a poetic name.
20. Zion
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: Highest point, fortress
Style: Biblical and bold
Zion carries deep spiritual meaning and has risen in popularity among modern American parents.
21. Zayvion
Origin: Modern American
Meaning: Invented name
Style: Unique and rhythmic
Zayvion is uncommon and gives off a melodic, stylish vibe.
22. Zamir
Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
Meaning: Song, conscience
Style: Cultural and thoughtful
Zamir is a strong multicultural name with a serene and meaningful undertone.
23. Zander
Origin: Greek
Meaning: Defender of men
Style: Bold and heroic
Zander is a popular variation of Alexander with a modern twist.
24. Zakari
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: God remembers
Style: Rare and religious
Zakari is a creative spelling of Zachary and often appeals to parents looking for something different.
25. Zaylen
Origin: Modern American
Meaning: Created name
Style: Trendy and fresh
Zaylen has a modern ring and fits well with contemporary naming trends.
26. Ziven
Origin: Slavic, Hebrew
Meaning: Vigorous, lively
Style: Energetic and rare
Ziven is a hidden gem with strong, life-affirming meaning.
27. Zaccai
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: Pure
Style: Biblical and unique
Zaccai appears in the Old Testament and is ideal for faith-based families seeking something uncommon.
28. Zephan
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: Hidden treasure
Style: Biblical and mystical
Zephan is a lesser-known form of Zephaniah, offering a rich meaning and unique sound.
Gender-Neutral Z Names
29. Zuri
Origin: Swahili
Meaning: Beautiful
Style: Chic and modern
Zuri is elegant and stylish, perfect for any gender and often used in American pop culture.
30. Zen
Origin: Japanese
Meaning: Meditation, peaceful
Style: Minimalist and serene
Zen offers a spiritual, calming aura for parents who value peace and mindfulness.
31. Zion
Already listed under boys, but it’s widely used as a gender-neutral name too, thanks to its deep spiritual and geographic roots.
32. Zeal
Origin: English
Meaning: Passion, enthusiasm
Style: Virtue name
Zeal is a modern virtue name, rich in positive energy and ambition.
33. Zyan
Origin: American variation of Zion
Meaning: Spiritual or inspired by Zion
Style: Modern and sleek
Zyan is trendy, unisex, and stylish, often used as an alternative to more traditional names.
Rare & Unique Z Names in the U.S.
If you’re after something a little more unique, here are some less common Z names to consider:
34. Zorion (Boy)
Origin: Basque
Meaning: Happiness
Style: Joyful and rare
35. Zavia (Girl)
Origin: Possibly modern American
Meaning: Unique blend name
Style: Trendy and fluid
36. Zivenna (Girl)
Origin: Invented name
Meaning: Modern take on Ziven
Style: Artistic and rare
37. Zyra (Girl)
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: Blossom
Style: Exotic and floral
38. Zorina (Girl)
Origin: Slavic
Meaning: Golden dawn
Style: Mystical and romantic
39. Zayce (Boy)
Origin: Modern creation
Meaning: Variant of Jace
Style: Stylish and strong
40. Zyric (Boy)
Origin: Invented name
Meaning: Possibly strength-related
Style: Cool and modern
Tips for Choosing a Baby Name That Starts With Z
Here are some helpful guidelines as you narrow down your Z-name favorites:
Does the name sound pleasing with your last name? Practice saying it in different tones—playful, serious, full name, nickname.
Ensure the initials of the full name don’t spell something unintended or awkward.
Many Z names like Zachary, Zayden, or Zaria come with cute nickname options—Zach, Zay, Zari, etc.
Some Z names have powerful meanings in specific languages or religions. Learn the history and decide if that adds personal value.
While unique spellings are fun, overly creative versions may lead to frequent corrections in school or work.
Final Thoughts
Names that begin with the letter Z are bold, beautiful, and brimming with character. Whether you’re drawn to something classic like Zachary or modern like Zaylee, this list of 40+ American baby names offers plenty of inspiration. Choosing a name is a special moment in your parenting journey—take your time, trust your heart, and find a name that resonates deeply with you and your family’s values.
Let the journey of naming your baby begin with the last letter of the alphabet—but the first in style and flair!
