Zahara
Zahara is a girl name of Arabic origin meaning “Flower, radiance”, pronounced zah-HAH-rah. It ranked #1289 in the United States in 2025, given to 174 babies, and peaked at #1197 in 2021. Common nicknames: Zara, Hara, Zizi.
How popular is Zahara in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Zahara mean, and where does it come from?
Zahara comes from the Arabic zahra, "flower" or "blossom," and from zahara, to shine — the two senses run together, and az-Zahra, the radiant, is the traditional epithet of Fatima, the Prophet's daughter. It is also a Hebrew name meaning to shine, and a town in Andalusia. American records hold it from 1986, and it remains outside the top thousand. Angelina Jolie's daughter, adopted from Ethiopia in 2005, is the bearer most Americans know.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Zahara
- Zahara — South African singer and songwriter
- Fatima az-Zahra — daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, by her epithet
Similar Names to Zahara
If you like Zahara, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Zahara
Looking for names that pair well with Zahara? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Zahara mean?
Zahara is a girl name of Arabic origin meaning "Flower, radiance." Zahara comes from the Arabic zahra, "flower" or "blossom," and from zahara, to shine — the two senses run together, and az-Zahra, the radiant, is the traditional epithet of Fatima, the Prophet's daughter. It is also a Hebrew name meaning to shine, and a town in Andalusia.
How do you pronounce Zahara?
Zahara is pronounced zah-HAH-rah. Common variations include Zahra, Zara, Sahara.
Is Zahara a girl name?
Yes, Zahara is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Zara, Hara, Zizi.