Zachary

Zachary, a Top 20 name for over a decade, is now dipping steadily in the ratings, at its lowest point in decades. But with its ancient roots and modern feel, you can understand why Zachary has been such a longtime winner.

Sir Elton John recently chose Zachary for his long-awaited first child, which may help propel it back into the spotlight. But contemporary parents might want to keep looking for more original alternatives. Variations such as Zachariah and Zacharias may have longer beards but at the same time feel fresher, while other Z names from Zebedee to Zane may suit parents whose main attraction is to the initial Z.

The name Zachary is attached to eight different people in the Bible, the most prominent being the father of John the Baptist. The Zackery spelling is also used, as are the nicknames Zach and Zak.