Find out how popular the first name Zeth has been for the last 47 years (from 1977 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Zeth by gender

Based on the last 47 years of data, Zeth is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 11 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Zeth.

The history of the first name Zeth

The name Zeth is a unique and intriguing moniker with an enigmatic history that spans across various cultures and time periods. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Sumerian civilization, where it was derived from the word "zeth," which translates to "life" or "breath." This linguistic connection suggests that the name may have initially carried connotations of vitality and the essence of existence.

In the realm of ancient texts, the name Zeth finds its earliest mention in the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest known literary works from Mesopotamia. This epic tale, dating back to around 2100 BCE, features a character named Zeth, though the precise details of their role are shrouded in the mists of time. This reference, however, serves as a testament to the name's antiquity and its deep-rooted connection to the cradle of civilization.

As civilizations evolved and cultures intermingled, the name Zeth underwent various transformations and adaptations. In ancient Egypt, a variant of the name, "Zethus," was recorded in hieroglyphic inscriptions, although its precise meaning and significance remain elusive. This Egyptian connection hints at the name's potential spread across the ancient Mediterranean region.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Zeth. One of the earliest recorded figures was Zeth of Alexandria, a renowned scholar and philosopher who lived during the 3rd century BCE. His contributions to the fields of mathematics and astronomy were significant, and his works were widely studied in the ancient world.

In the realm of literature, the name Zeth gained prominence through the works of the influential Roman poet, Ovid. In his renowned work, "Metamorphoses," Ovid introduced the character of Zethus, the twin brother of Amphion. This literary reference added a layer of depth and mythology to the name, further solidifying its place in the annals of Western culture.

Another notable figure bearing the name Zeth was the 12th-century Andalusian philosopher and mathematician, Zeth ibn Yahya al-Qurashi. His contributions to the field of mathematics, particularly his work on algebraic equations, were groundbreaking and helped shape the mathematical discourse of his era.

In more recent times, the name Zeth has been associated with various artistic and literary figures. One such individual was Zeth Lundy, an American painter and illustrator who gained recognition for his vibrant and expressive works during the 20th century.

Lastly, it is worth mentioning Zeth Paxson, a contemporary American author and game designer, whose works have explored the realms of science fiction and fantasy. His contributions to the literary and gaming communities have helped to keep the name Zeth alive and relevant in modern times.

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

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

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