Find out how popular the first name Zenith has been for the last 37 years (from 1987 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Zenith by gender

Based on the last 37 years of data, Zenith is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 68% of people named Zenith being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 37 male babies and 25 female babies born with the name Zenith.

The history of the first name Zenith

The given name Zenith originates from the Arabic word 'samt', meaning 'path' or 'way'. It was first used in reference to the highest point in the celestial sphere, directly above the observer. The name gained popularity in the 17th century, particularly in Europe, where it was adopted as a symbolic representation of the highest point of achievement or success.

In the realm of astronomy, the term 'zenith' has been extensively used since ancient times. It is mentioned in various historical texts, including the works of Ptolemy, the renowned Greek astronomer and mathematician who lived in the 2nd century AD. The concept of the zenith played a significant role in the development of celestial navigation and the study of celestial bodies.

One of the earliest recorded instances of Zenith as a given name dates back to the 16th century. Zenith Bourgogne, a French nobleman born in 1542, was among the first individuals to bear this name. However, it wasn't until the 18th and 19th centuries that the name gained wider popularity across various cultures and regions.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Zenith. One such figure was Zenith Aksamit (1904-1975), a Polish-American engineer and inventor who made significant contributions to the field of aviation. Another notable bearer of this name was Zenith Buchanan (1879-1963), a British colonial administrator who served in various parts of the British Empire, including India and Africa.

In the literary world, Zenith Virago (1892-1971) was a renowned American novelist and poet, known for her works exploring themes of identity and social justice. Zenith Pettis (1921-2003), an American civil rights activist and educator, played a pivotal role in the fight for racial equality and desegregation in the United States.

Lastly, Zenith Rembrandt (1906-1998), a Dutch painter and sculptor, gained international recognition for his avant-garde artistic creations, which challenged conventional norms and pushed the boundaries of contemporary art.

While the name Zenith may have originated from an astronomical term, its symbolic meaning of reaching the highest point of achievement or success has resonated across various cultures and time periods, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a unique and inspiring name for their children.

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 Zenith was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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