How have African American baby naming trends changed over time?

Many African Americans adopted Biblical and European names like John, Mary, and David. But, with the rise of African American movements, like the Civil Rights Movement, the naming trends started shifting towards names inspired by leaders like Rosa and Martin. They also started giving names that celebrated African heritage, such as Quianna and Cleavon.

Can African American baby names be influenced by popular culture?

Yes. Many African American names are influenced by popular culture, including those from music, movies, television, and sports. Some examples include Zendaya, Keisha, LeBron, and Serena.

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12 African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With Z

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

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Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

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Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Zyaire	Boy	River swallowing rivers; Congo river
Zaire	Boy	River that swallows other rivers
Zariyah	Girl	Blooming flower
Zaniyah	Girl	Corner; Forever
Zavion	Boy	New house
Zori	Unisex	Mighty; Beautiful; Morning star
Zavien	Unisex	New house
Zyonna	Girl	A Jewish homeland; Heaven
Zyron	Boy	Jewish homeland; Heaven; Place of the cow sheds; Well born
Zae	Unisex	Beauty; Precious jewel; Fragrant flower; Of Azalea

Zamari	Unisex	To praise God
Zaia	Boy	Precious; Kind of cloth; Wicker basket; Fate; Destiny; Salvation of the Lord

Infographic: Attractive African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With Z

African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With Z are significant and exquisite. They carry an inherent sense of charm that's almost impossible to ignore. Our infographic below shares several options that fit diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Explore the list and pick a name that resonates with you. Remember, your baby's name is integral to their identity, so choose a name that best complements their personality.

African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With Z(infographic)

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.