Find out how popular the first name Zara has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Zara by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Zara is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 1,282 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Zara.

The history of the first name Zara

The name Zara originates from the Arabic language and has its roots in the word "zahra," which means "flower" or "blooming." The name is believed to have emerged in the Middle East during the medieval period, around the 7th to 10th centuries.

Zara gained popularity among Muslim communities, particularly in regions where Arabic culture and language had a significant influence. It was often chosen as a name for girls, reflecting the beauty and delicacy associated with flowers.

One of the earliest historical references to the name Zara can be found in the Quran, the central religious text of Islam. In the Quran, the name is mentioned as Zarah, which is considered a variant spelling of Zara.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Zara. One of the most famous was Zara Yeats (1868-1924), an Irish playwright and co-founder of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. She was a prominent figure in the Irish literary revival movement and played a significant role in promoting Irish culture and identity.

Another well-known Zara was Zara Schmiterlöw (1903-1986), a Swedish artist and sculptor known for her modernist works. Her sculptures and paintings were featured in numerous exhibitions and can be found in several museums around the world.

In the realm of music, Zara Dolukhanova (1918-2007) was a renowned mezzo-soprano from Russia. She performed with prestigious opera companies and was celebrated for her powerful and expressive voice.

Zara Blacks (1836-1905), a Native American activist, was a prominent figure in the fight for indigenous rights in the United States. She played a crucial role in advocating for the preservation of Native American culture and land rights.

Zara Alexandrovna (1914-1998), a Russian-born artist, was known for her vibrant abstract paintings and her contributions to the modern art movement in the United States. Her works were exhibited in numerous galleries and museums throughout her career.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have carried the name Zara throughout history, showcasing its enduring appeal and the diverse backgrounds of those who have borne this name.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Zara was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Zara, please contact us.

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