Keziah

Meaning & origin

Keziah is a biblical name with strong Old Testament roots, appearing as one of Job's three daughters after his restoration. It is derived from the Hebrew word for the aromatic cassia tree, which gives the name a natural and botanical elegance. Historically used by Puritans and later revived in the 20th century, Keziah has seen a steady rise in popularity since 1985. In 2025, it ranked 766th in the United States, with a 1-in-4,540 chance of being chosen for a newborn girl, reaching its peak year yet. The name is most popular in southern states such as Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma, reflecting a regional preference for distinctive biblical names. Its modern sound and nickname options like Kez and Zia make it appealing to parents seeking a name that is both spiritual and contemporary, without being among the most common choices.

Keziah derives from the Hebrew word קְצִיעָה (qetzi'ah), meaning 'cassia' or 'cinnamon', referring to the aromatic bark of the Cinnamomum cassia tree. In the Old Testament, Keziah was the second daughter born to Job after his restoration (Job 42:14). The name has been used among English speakers since the Puritan era and saw a revival in the late 20th century.