Declining since 2017, #2,173 for girls today.
Popularity of Zadie since 1881
Babies named Zadie per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2016, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Zadie's real moment was 1881.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 74 |
| 1890s | 101 |
| 1900s | 164 |
| 1910s | 236 |
| 1920s | 272 |
| 1930s | 153 |
| 1940s | 145 |
| 1950s | 62 |
| 1960s | 10 |
| 1970s | 7 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 56 |
| 2000s | 395 |
| 2010s | 1,157 |
| 2020s | 778 |
Meaning & origin
Zadie is a rare girl's name first recorded in 1881, though its modern usage has been in decline since 2017, with a rank of 2173 in 2025 (approximately 1 in 18,909 births). Its peak occurred in 1881, yet its low frequency suggests it has never been widespread. The name is most common in California, Florida, and Texas, possibly reflecting its modern creative appeal. While often considered a variant of Sadie or a diminutive of Sarah, Zadie's origins remain somewhat unclear, contributing to its unique charm.
Zadie is likely a variant spelling of Sadie, itself a diminutive of Sarah, the Hebrew name meaning 'princess'. It emerged in the late 19th century, possibly as a creative respelling influenced by nickname patterns or literary use. Though less common historically, it has seen periodic use in the United States.
Where Zadie is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Zay, Zee, Deedee
Sibling names for Zadie
Names that share Zadie's style, for a brother or sister.
