Zaccheus

Meaning & origin

Zaccheus is an exceedingly rare biblical name that has never broken into mainstream usage in the United States. Since being recorded in 1980, it has never ranked higher than 10,695, a position it held in 2025 with approximately 1 in every 284,679 newborn boys receiving the name. Its peak popularity came in 2001, but it has been steadily declining since the early 2000s, reflecting a broader trend away from obscure Old Testament names. The name has not been associated with any particular state or region, indicating its scattered, idiosyncratic use. Despite its rarity, Zaccheus carries strong New Testament associations and may appeal to families seeking a distinctive name with religious depth and a classic sound.

Zaccheus is the Latinized form of the Greek Zakchaios, itself from the Hebrew Zakkai, meaning 'pure' or 'righteous.' In the New Testament, Zacchaeus is a tax collector who climbs a sycamore tree to see Jesus, a story that has given the name modest recognition in Christian traditions. It has been used sporadically in English-speaking countries since the Protestant Reformation, but remains rare.