What customs and traditions are associated with English baby names?

English naming customs typically involve three elements - a given name, a middle name (s), and a family name. The British follow a patrilineal naming system where the child inherits their fathers family name. However, following the patrilineal naming system is not mandatory. Instead, parents have the freedom to choose their childs last name. Some parents could also give their child the mothers last name. In contrast, others may provide both mother and father surnames in a hyphenated form, reflecting the flexibility in English naming traditions and customs.

How do English baby names reflect a person's heritage?

English naming conventions are diverse, encompassing people from different religions, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds. Many parents may opt for names that mirror their ethnic and cultural connections. For example, parents of Irish heritage may choose titles like Liam. On the other hand, those of Greek origin might opt for names like Sophia or Alexander. Parents may also pick names that reflect their regional heritage. For example, Devon and Kent are names inspired by specific regions or places within England. Furthermore, many families pass down names from one generation to another or choose monikers inspired by literary and historical figures.

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28 English Baby Names Meaning, 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

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Name	Gender	Meaning
Zyaire	Boy	River swallowing rivers
Zaiden	Boy	God; Divinity
Zaylee	Girl	Sea strength; Hay clearing
Zaxton	Boy	Innovative; Adaptable; Determined
Zelie	Girl	A flower
Zipporah	Girl	Bird
Zavien	Unisex	New house; Bright; Splendid
Zayleigh	Unisex	Variation of the English name Hayleigh; A combination of the names Zane and Hayleigh
Zailey	Unisex	Joyful; Spirited; Charming
Zaylie	Girl	Heavenly; Beautiful

Zoella	Girl	Bright; Life
Zoelle	Unisex	Life
Zooey	Unisex	Life
Zillah	Girl	Shadow
Zalen	Unisex	Thrower; Hitter
Zedrick	Boy	From the green land
Zalea	Unisex	Flower-like; Unique; Elegance
Zianne	Unisex	Graceful; Kind-hearted
Zero	Boy	Empty
Zevan	Boy	God is Fair; Righteousness of Lord; Justice of the Lord

Zielle	Unisex	Target; Goal
Zavi	Girl	Archer; Yew wood; Yew wood that was used for bows
Zeal	Unisex	One who has great energy; An enthusiastic man; A passionate man
Zenith	Unisex	From the highest point; The very top; the highest point on the celestial sphere
Zuhdija	Boy	A practical, patient, and detailed person
Zula	Boy	Brilliant; Ahead
Zilphia	Girl	Sprinkle or distill
Zinzan	Unisex	Beautiful; Attractive

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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.

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Author Editor Fact Checker

Shikha ThakurMBA

Siddharth KesirajuMA, Certification in Relationship Coaching

Praggya JoshiMA, BEd

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