Rising since 1998, #563 for boys today.
Popularity of Zakai since 1998
Babies named Zakai per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 15 |
| 2000s | 373 |
| 2010s | 1,311 |
| 2020s | 2,353 |
Meaning & origin
Zakai is a modern biblical variant that has seen steady growth in the United States since its first recorded use in 1998. By 2025, it reached a rank of 563, with about 1 in 3,235 boys receiving the name that year, matching its peak popularity. The name's upward trajectory suggests growing appeal among parents seeking a distinctive alternative to Zachary or Zane, particularly in states like Delaware, New Mexico, and Georgia. While its precise etymology remains uncertain, its likely Hebrew roots and similarity to Zakai contribute to its perceived meaning of purity.
Zakai is likely a variant of the Hebrew name Zaccai or Zakai, derived from the Hebrew root z-k-h, meaning 'pure' or 'innocent'. It appears in the Bible as the name of a minor figure. In modern usage, it has gained popularity in the United States since the late 1990s, often chosen for its distinctive sound and perceived connection to similar biblical names like Zachary.
Where Zakai is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Zak, Kai
Sibling names for Zakai
Names that share Zakai's style, for a brother or sister.
