Rising since 1997, #3,342 for girls today.
Popularity of Zorah since 1896
Babies named Zorah per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 5 |
| 1900s | 0 |
| 1910s | 6 |
| 1920s | 0 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 7 |
| 2000s | 107 |
| 2010s | 161 |
| 2020s | 241 |
Meaning & origin
Zorah is a rare and distinctive name with multiple possible origins, including Arabic, Hebrew, and Slavic roots. While its exact etymology is debated, it has been in sporadic use in the United States since at least 1896. The name has experienced a notable rise in popularity since 1997, reaching its peak rank in 2023. As of 2025, it ranks 3,342, with an incidence of 1 in 34,941 births. Zorah is most popular in Georgia and Texas, suggesting a particular resonance in the South and Southwest. Its melodic sound and cross-cultural appeal make it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a name that is both uncommon and rich in potential meaning.
Zorah's etymology is debated. It may be a modern coinage inspired by the Hebrew name Zohar ('light, splendor') or the Arabic Zahra ('flower, blossom'). It also appears as a variant of Zora, a Slavic name meaning 'dawn'. The name gained some usage in the United States in the late 19th century and has seen a recent resurgence since the 1990s.
Where Zorah is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Zora, Zori, Z
Sibling names for Zorah
Names that share Zorah's style, for a brother or sister.
