Rising since 1985, #864 for boys today.
Popularity of Zev since 1951
Babies named Zev per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 90 |
| 1960s | 105 |
| 1970s | 190 |
| 1980s | 261 |
| 1990s | 453 |
| 2000s | 889 |
| 2010s | 1,642 |
| 2020s | 1,523 |
Meaning & origin
Zev is a Hebrew name meaning 'wolf', a direct and strong choice with ancient roots. First recorded in the United States in 1951, it has been steadily rising in popularity since the 1980s, reaching its peak rank of 864 in 2025 with about 1 in every 6,166 newborns. The name is particularly favored in states like New York, New Jersey, and Maryland. Its trajectory shows sustained growth over decades, reflecting a broader interest in concise, traditional Hebrew names. While still uncommon, Zev's simplicity and distinctive meaning appeal to parents seeking a name that is both classic and modern.
Zev is a Hebrew name meaning 'wolf'. It appears in the Hebrew Bible as the name of a prince of Midian. In modern times, it is often used as a standalone name, sometimes abbreviating Zevulun, a son of Jacob. The name has been borne by Jewish families for centuries and has seen increased use in the United States since the mid-20th century.
Where Zev is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Zev” around the world
Where Zev lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
Quebec
6
babies in 2025
Sources: Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Sibling names for Zev
Names that share Zev's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Leah, Maya, Noa, Talia, Aviva, Atara, Chaya, Malka, Nava, Shira, Tzipora, Ahava, Alla, Aviah, Avigayil, Bayla, Gal, Natanya, Orly, Shelah, Yakira, Zahava, Amalya, Malkia, Mazal, Nira, Raizel, Sharai, Sheyna, Ytzel, Zeva, Adinah, Bassheva, Chasya, Chayah, Emunah, Hallel, Rinnah, Sheera, Shiri, Talli
Brothers: Eli, Asher, Levi, Micah, Ronen, Akiva, Aryeh, Azriel, Shai, Shalom, Shaya, Asaph, Eyal, Eytan, Nadav, Naftuli, Nahom, Ronit, Yeshaya, Allon, Arel, Avir, Lavi, Meilech, Rishon, Samael, Zimri, Adar, Adir, Bezalel, Dagan, Hux, Navon, Nechemia, Ovadia, Ronith, Yotam, Zakar, Zee
