Rising since 2014, #2,691 for girls today.
Popularity of Zulema since 1889
Babies named Zulema per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1996, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Zulema's real moment was 2021.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 0 |
| 1900s | 5 |
| 1910s | 43 |
| 1920s | 145 |
| 1930s | 146 |
| 1940s | 183 |
| 1950s | 194 |
| 1960s | 230 |
| 1970s | 440 |
| 1980s | 412 |
| 1990s | 804 |
| 2000s | 592 |
| 2010s | 424 |
| 2020s | 439 |
Meaning & origin
Zulema first appeared on the U.S. baby name charts in 1889 and has experienced moderate use ever since. Its peak year was 2021, when it saw a brief surge in popularity, and it has been on the rise again since 2014. The name is most commonly given in California, Illinois, and Texas, reflecting its strong Hispanic and Arabic cultural connections. Zulema is a variant of Zulaykha, a name from Islamic tradition, and carries an exotic, melodic sound that appeals to parents seeking a rare but resonant name. With a current rank of 2,691 and a 1-in-25,114 frequency, Zulema remains a distinctive choice that blends historical depth with a modern feel.
Zulema is a variant of the Arabic name Zulaykha, which appears in Islamic tradition as the name of Potiphar's wife in the story of Yusuf (Joseph). The name has been used in Spanish-speaking countries and among Hispanic communities in the United States. Its precise meaning is uncertain, but it is often associated with qualities of beauty and prosperity.
Where Zulema is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Zuly, Zul
Variants: Zulaykha, Zuleika
Sibling names for Zulema
Names that share Zulema's style, for a brother or sister.
