Holding steady, #4,707 for boys today.
Popularity of Zalman since 1949
Babies named Zalman per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 6 |
| 1950s | 10 |
| 1960s | 21 |
| 1970s | 47 |
| 1980s | 76 |
| 1990s | 98 |
| 2000s | 138 |
| 2010s | 162 |
| 2020s | 129 |
Meaning & origin
Zalman is a masculine name deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. It is a Yiddish form of Solomon, and its meaning ties to the Hebrew word for peace. The name has been used in the U.S. since at least 1949, when it first appeared in Social Security records. In 2025, it ranked 4,707, with about 1 in 81,337 boys receiving the name. Its peak year was 2021, suggesting a modest but steady interest. The name has a stable trajectory and is most common in New York, reflecting its popularity among Jewish communities in the state. Zalman offers a distinctive yet traditional choice that honors heritage.
Zalman is a Yiddish variant of Solomon, derived from the Hebrew name Shlomo, which comes from 'shalom' meaning peace. It has been used among Ashkenazi Jewish communities, particularly in Eastern Europe, as a vernacular form. The name carries the meaning 'peace of Israel' through its connection to Solomon, the biblical king known for wisdom and peace.
Where Zalman is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Zal, Zali, Manny
Sibling names for Zalman
Names that share Zalman's style, for a brother or sister.
