Declining since 1992, #6,546 for girls today.
Popularity of Zuleika since 1967
Babies named Zuleika per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2007, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Zuleika's real moment was 1993.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 13 |
| 1970s | 177 |
| 1980s | 172 |
| 1990s | 282 |
| 2000s | 265 |
| 2010s | 235 |
| 2020s | 86 |
Meaning & origin
Zuleika is a rare and literary name with roots in Arabic and Persian cultures. In the United States, it first appeared on record in 1967 and reached its peak popularity in 1993, though it has been declining in use since 1992. As of 2025, it ranked 6,546th, with a frequency of 1 in 94,545 births. The name has been most popular in California, reflecting its multicultural appeal. While uncommon, Zuleika carries an exotic, lyrical quality that appeals to parents seeking a distinctive yet historically grounded name. Its association with Beerbohm's novel 'Zuleika Dobson' gives it a playful, intellectual edge.
Zuleika is most likely a variant of Zuleikha, an Arabic name meaning 'fair' or 'brilliant'. It is also associated with the Persian form Zulaykha, known from the story of Yusuf and Zulaikha in Islamic and Judeo-Christian traditions. The name entered Western usage largely through literary works, notably 'Zuleika Dobson' by Max Beerbohm (1911). Despite its long history in the Middle East, its modern use in English-speaking countries is rare and often tied to literary appreciation.
Where Zuleika is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Zula, Leika, Zuzu
Sibling names for Zuleika
Names that share Zuleika's style, for a brother or sister.
