Alternatives to Zoe or Zoey

  1. Zaelia
    • Origin:

      Modern invention, Spanish
    • Meaning:

      "rose; flower; noble"
    • Description:

      Sometimes cited as an Anglicized form of the Spanish name Rosalia/Rosaelia, Zaelia may also derive from other similar-sounding names, like Azalea, Zelia or Zélie. With high-value Scrabble letters and the "ay" sound bang on-trend, it's surprising that this striking name remains so rare.
  2. Ziola
    • Origin:

      Variation of Zoila, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "lively"
    • Description:

      Ziola is a Zoe relative via Zoila, the feminine form of the Ancient Greek name Zoilos or Zoilus, borne by a 4th century BC cynic philosopher. Zoilos adopted a name meaning "Homer whipper" for himself.
  3. Alza
    • Description:

      Alza is a concise and distinctive feminine name with several possible origins. It may derive from Spanish, where it relates to the verb 'alzar' meaning 'to raise' or 'to lift up,' suggesting elevation and aspiration. Alternatively, it could be connected to Germanic elements meaning 'noble' or serve as a shortened form of names like Alzada. The brevity of Alza gives it a modern, streamlined quality while its soft sounds maintain a feminine elegance. This uncommon name has a international versatility that works across multiple cultures. Its rarity makes it stand out, yet its simple pronunciation prevents it from being too challenging. For parents seeking a short, meaningful name with cross-cultural appeal, Alza offers uniqueness without complexity.
  4. Zayley
    • Origin:

      Modern invented name
    • Description:

      Zayley -- which may also be styled Zaylee or Zaylie or Zalie, among other spellings -- is a member of the squad of names that include Bailey, Hayley, and Kaylee and is always welcoming new members.
  5. Zeena
    • Description:

      Zeena is a feminine name with multiple cultural connections. In Arabic origins, it relates to 'zina' meaning 'beauty' or 'adornment.' The name also appears in Indian culture with Sanskrit roots relating to abundance. In Western contexts, it may be viewed as a variation of names like Zina or Xena. The name gained some recognition through author Zeena Schreck and as a character name in literature and entertainment. With its striking 'Z' beginning and flowing sounds, Zeena offers an exotic yet accessible option for parents seeking something distinctive. Though never extremely common in English-speaking countries, its cross-cultural appeal and contemporary sound have given it modest usage across diverse communities. The name carries connotations of beauty, strength, and uniqueness with its memorable consonant-vowel pattern.

  6. Zoelie
    • Origin:

      French from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "life"
    • Description:

      Zoelie, also spelled Zoélie, looks like a modern elaboration of Zoe but may have deeper roots. It is thought to be a form of Zoelle, a feminization of Zoel, the French version of the saintly name Zoellus. His name seems to be a form of Zoilos... which itself comes from the same root as Zoe, meaning "life"! Whether it's ancient or modern, Zoelie is a pretty name that might appeal as an unusual alternative to Sylvie and Coralie.
  7. Zakia
    • Origin:

      Arabic and Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "pure"
    • Description:

      Strong cross-cultural name that could be a feminine spin on the Zachary family.
  8. Zellah
    • Description:

      Zellah is a unique feminine name with Hebrew roots. It is a variant of Zelda or Zella, which derived from the Germanic name Griselda, meaning 'gray fighting maid', or potentially from the Hebrew name Zelda meaning 'blessed' or 'happiness'. Throughout history, Zellah has remained relatively uncommon, giving it a distinctive quality. The name appears briefly in the Bible as one of Lamech's wives, adding to its ancient heritage. In modern usage, Zellah remains a rare choice for parents seeking something traditional yet distinctive, with a soft, melodic sound that combines the trendy 'Z' initial with a gentle ending.

  9. Zemi
    • Origin:

      Modern invented name
    • Description:

      The advent of Zemi is likely due to the ultra-stylish name Remi, which has been picking up steam for girls and boys. Zemi debuted in 2020, when it was given to six baby girls.
  10. Zosma
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "girdle"
    • Description:

      The name of a star in the constellation of Leo, Zosma is an intriguing, celestial choice that could make an unexpected middle name option, especially for babies born under the lion sign. Meaning "belt" or "girdle" in Greek, Zosma (the star) is located at the hip of the of the constellation.
  11. Zazu
    • Description:

      Zazu is a feminine name that gained recognition through the character of King Mufasa's hornbill advisor in Disney's 'The Lion King.' With African origins, the name carries connotations of movement and liveliness. Though uncommon in traditional naming registers, Zazu has appeal for parents seeking distinctive names with pop culture connections. The name suggests loyalty, wisdom, and a vibrant personality. While never ranking in popular name charts, Zazu has maintained a steady presence as a unique choice that offers both exoticism and recognizability, appealing to parents drawn to names that stand out while having a familiar reference point.
  12. Zoelle
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "life + girl"
    • Description:

      Zoelle is a modern-sounding name combining the stylish Zoe, which means life, with the trendy Elle, French for "she". Could make for a zippier spin on sweet Noelle.
  13. Zettie
    • Description:

      Zettie is a feminine name with American roots, often used as a diminutive form of names beginning with 'Z' such as Zetta or Zetella, or occasionally as a nickname for Elizabeth. Popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the Southern United States, Zettie has a vintage charm that evokes simpler times. The name peaked in popularity around the 1900s but has since become quite rare, making it a distinctive choice for modern parents seeking uncommon vintage names. Zettie has a cheerful, lively sound with its bouncy 'z' and double 't' consonants. While lacking a specific meaning of its own, as a diminutive it carries the warm, affectionate quality characteristic of nicknames from this era.

  14. Zaela
    • Origin:

      English, modern invented name
    • Description:

      An even more modern spin on Zayla.
  15. Zailee
    • Description:

      Zailee is a modern feminine name that combines the popular contemporary initial 'Z' with the melodic '-ailee' ending that echoes established names like Hailey, Kaylee, and Bailey. This inventive name represents the 21st-century trend of creating distinctive names that sound familiar while offering uniqueness. The 'Z' beginning gives Zailee a touch of zest and energy, while the flowing ending adds softness and femininity. Though lacking specific historical origins, Zailee follows phonetic patterns that make it instantly recognizable as a name despite its novelty. Its emergence coincides with parents increasingly seeking names that stand out while fitting comfortably into current naming styles, making Zailee representative of contemporary creative naming approaches.

  16. Zaki
    • Description:

      Zaki is a feminine name that originated in various cultures including Arabic, African, and Hebrew traditions. In Arabic, it means "pure" or "virtuous," while in Swahili it translates to "born of the king." With Hebrew roots, it can mean "God remembers" or "innocent." Though traditionally more common for boys in its countries of origin, Zaki has been embraced as a gender-neutral or feminine name in Western contexts. The name's brevity gives it a modern, minimalist appeal, while its multicultural origins offer rich cultural connections. The distinctive 'Z' beginning makes it stand out alphabetically and phonetically. Despite its ancient roots, Zaki feels contemporary and fresh, appealing to parents seeking names that are both cross-cultural and uncommon, with a positive, uplifting meaning.
  17. Ily
    • Origin:

      Modern English
    • Meaning:

      "I love you"
    • Description:

      This sweet little acronym, popularized in the age of texting, has established itself as a baby name. The similarity to Ivy, Isla and Riley/Miley has undoubtedly played a role.
  18. Zareeb
    • Zelig
      • Zeline