MallowbyNames

Zoel

ZOH-el · Derived from the Greek name Zoe, meaning 'life'; the L ending may suggest a masculine variant, though usage is unisex.

2025 rank (boys)
#8,910
Babies named in 2025
8
Peak popularity
2023
2025 frequency
1 in 213,510 boys
Usually for
Girls & boys
Trend
Rising since 2011

Rising since 2011, #8,910 for boys today.

Popularity of Zoel since 2007

Babies named Zoel per year in U.S. Social Security records.

5101520102020Most births 2023GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
2000s018
2010s3642
2020s060

Meaning & origin

Zoel is a modern unisex name that first appeared in U.S. records in 2007. It peaked in popularity in 2023 at rank 8910, with a 1-in-213510 rate of use. The name derives from Zoe, the Greek word for 'life', though the L ending gives it a distinctive twist. Since 2011, usage has been steadily rising, particularly for boys. While not yet among the most common names, Zoel appeals to parents seeking a fresh, meaningful, and gender-neutral option.

Zoel is a modern variant or elaboration of Zoe, the Greek word for 'life' (ζωή). Zoe was a common name among early Christians, symbolizing eternal life. Zoel likely emerged as a fresh, unisex adaptation in the late 20th or early 21st century, especially in the United States.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Zo, Z

Variants: Zoelle, Zoelie

Sibling names for Zoel

Names that share Zoel's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Zoe, Eloise, Noa, Maya, Lila

Brothers: Zion, Ezra, Noah, Leo, Kai

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

Z is for Zoel, our favorite little person.

Z is for Zoel…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Zoel's letter becomes Zoel's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Zoel's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does Zoel mean?
Zoel is derived from the Greek name Zoe, meaning 'life'.
How popular is Zoel?
In 2023, Zoel ranked 8910th in the U.S., with a 1-in-213510 chance of a newborn being named Zoel.
Is Zoel a boy or girl name?
Zoel is unisex. It first appeared in U.S. records in 2007 and has been used for both boys and girls.