vintage girl names begging to be rediscovered

Zenna

Zenna is a feminine name with multiple possible origins. It may be derived from the Greek name Xenia, meaning "hospitable" or "welcoming to strangers," or it could be a variation of Zena, which comes…

Zenobia

Greek

"force of Zeus"

With historical roots as a beautiful and intelligent ancient queen and literary ties to Hawthorne and Edith Wharton novels, this rarity could appeal to adventurous parents seeking the romantically…

Zeola

Zeola is a feminine name with uncertain origins, possibly derived from Greek roots or representing a variant of Zeola. Some sources suggest connections to 'zoe' meaning 'life.' The name emerged in…

Zephyr

Greek

"west wind"

Zephyrus was the Greek god of the west wind, and all names associated with him have a pleasantly gentle, breezy feel. With its cool Z initial and similarity in sound to Stephie and Serafina, Zephyr…

Zeta

Variation of Zita or Greek letter name

The sixth letter of the Greek alphabet, popularized by Welsh actress Catherine Zeta-Jones -- Zeta was her grandmother's first name. Zeta can also refer to the letter Z, the last in the Roman…

Zetta

Hebrew

"olive"

A rarely heard Hebrew name whose zippy first initial Z transforms it from dated Yetta-like image to more lively Catherine Zeta Jones-like appeal.

Zettie

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…

Zilla

Hebrew

"shadow"

Although this Old Testament name is soft and delicate, it runs the risk of conjuring up the monstrous Godzilla.

Zoa

Greek

"life"

Possibly a variation of the ultra-popular Greek Zoe, Zoa was given to around 2 dozen baby girls each recent year.

Zola

African, Congolese; also literary name

"piece of earth"

When the Eddie Murphys named their fourth daughter Zola, it affirmed the up-and-coming status of the name, which has African roots, but also literary links to Emile Zola. Zola may also be…

Zula

English, derived from Zulu, South African tribal name

Related to the powerful South African warrior people, sometimes chosen by African-Americans to celebrate their heritage. Zula is also a Norwegian diminutive of Zuzanna.

Zulema

Spanish

"peace"

Possibly derived from Salome, Sulayman, and Solomon, Zulema and alternative spelling Zulima are peaceful Spanish names, with their origins in Arabic and Hebrew.