Holding steady.
Popularity of Zenda since 1914
Babies named Zenda per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 6 |
| 1920s | 14 |
| 1930s | 5 |
| 1940s | 27 |
| 1950s | 116 |
| 1960s | 55 |
| 1970s | 79 |
| 1980s | 17 |
| 1990s | 5 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Zenda is a rare name with a mysterious appeal. First recorded in the United States in 1914, it saw its highest usage in 1953, yet it has never reached the top 1000. Its origin is debated: some link it to the Persian Zoroastrian texts (the Zend-Avesta), giving it a spiritual resonance, while others see it as a creative modern variation of Zena or a blend of Zoe and Linda. The name's trajectory is stable, with very few births per year, and it has no strong association with any particular state. For parents seeking a distinctive and uncommon name with possible ancient roots, Zenda offers an intriguing choice.
Zenda likely originates from the Persian word 'zend', referring to the Zend-Avesta, the sacred texts of Zoroastrianism, though this connection is speculative. It may also be a modern coinage influenced by names like Zena (a Scottish form of Xenia) or a blend of Z and popular suffix -enda. The name saw modest use in the United States from the early 20th century, with a peak in 1953, but remains rare.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Zen, Zendy
Variants: Zendah
Sibling names for Zenda
Names that share Zenda's style, for a brother or sister.
