Zoe is one of those surprising names that has been on the Top 1000 nearly every year since 1880, but it's only since the turn of this century that it's ranked in the Top 100.

Zara has multiple origins, but most notably is a variation of Zahrah, a name derived from the Arabic zahrah, meaning "blooming flower." Zara can also be a diminutive of the Bulgarian name Zaharina, a feminine form of the Hebrew Zechariah. Today, Zara is heavily associated with the Spanish fast-fashion empire of the same name.

Zoey is a modern spelling variation of Zoe, the Greek Jewish translation of Eve. For a few years, it was even more popular than the original Zoe, but has now dropped back to the second-ranked spelling — not by much, however. In a recent year, Zoe ranked at #29 in the US, which Zoey featured at #59.

Zahara, a delicate but strong multicultural name, came into the spotlight when Angelina Jolie bestowed it on her Ethiopian-born daughter, and we predict other parents will adopt it as well. If you want something simpler than Zahara, consider Zara, a royal name in England--but also the name of a Spanish-based clothing store chain.

A powerful name with an intriguing air of antiquity, Zenaida has the freshness of Zephyr and Azalea too. Meaning "life of Zeus" or "dedicated to Zeus", it was notably borne by the first-century saint, Zenaida of Tarsus. She and her sister Philonella, were physicians, particularly interested in experimental medicine, pediatrics, and psychiatric disorders.

Has a gemlike glow, as in Sapphire.

An elegant, powerful, and multi-cultural name with various origins. Used occasionally in the US since the 80s, the name has seen more significant use since the mid-2010s and is now given to around 130 girls each year.

Zuleika is a high-wire act of a name that might appeal to the intrepid baby namer, Like most 'Z'-starting girls' names, it projects a cool, strong aura, as exemplified by the character in Max Beerbohm's satirical 1910 novel, Zuleika Dobson, a heroine so gorgeous that the entire student body of Oxford University committed collective suicide at the sight of her.

Zahira is the feminine form of Zahir. Some may relate it to the more familiar Zahara.

Zarah is a feminine name with rich multicultural origins. It's a variant of Sarah, derived from Hebrew meaning 'princess,' but this spelling gives it a more exotic and distinctive character. In Arabic contexts, Zarah relates to 'brilliance' or 'flower,' while some associate it with 'radiance' or 'the rising of light.' The name appears in various cultures including Persian, Arabic, and European traditions, each adding layers to its meaning. The 'Z' initial and 'h' ending create a balanced, melodic quality that feels both ancient and contemporary. While less common than Sarah, Zarah has gained appreciation among parents seeking a name with cross-cultural appeal, spiritual significance, and a touch of uniqueness without being difficult to pronounce.

This spelling variation of the alluring Zuleika was brought to the spotlight by 2006's crowned Miss Universe, Zuleyka Rivera. Zuleika is considered to be the name of the Biblical Potiphar's wife, about whom several famous poems have been written throughout history.

Could be some disconnect between spelling and pronunciation.

Variant of rising star Soraya, with that cool Z initial.