Holding steady.
Popularity of Zalika since 1975
Babies named Zalika per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 42 |
| 1980s | 53 |
| 1990s | 85 |
| 2000s | 27 |
| 2010s | 29 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Zalika is a name that stands out for its rarity and multicultural resonance. First recorded in U.S. birth data in 1975, it saw its highest level of usage in 1992, yet even then it did not break into the national top 1000. The name has remained stable in use since the 1990s, never experiencing a dramatic spike or decline. Though the Social Security database does not record any top states for Zalika, its profile suggests it is spread thinly across the country. Parents drawn to it often appreciate its elegant sound and the dual nobility in its Arabic and Swahili origin stories, making it a distinctive choice that honors African or Arabic heritage without being common.
The name Zalika is of debated origin. In Arabic, the root "z-l-q" can convey notions of nobility or excellence, and the name is often interpreted as "well-born" or "noble." In Swahili and other East African languages, it has been associated with the word for "queen" or "born to royalty." The name gained some visibility in the late 20th century, possibly influenced by Zsa Zsa or Zara, and has seen modest but steady use in the United States since the 1970s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Zali, Zal, Lika
Variants: Zalika, Zalikah, Zaleeka
Sibling names for Zalika
Names that share Zalika's style, for a brother or sister.

