Zen
Zen is a boy name of Japanese origin meaning “Meditation”, pronounced ZEN. It ranked #1144 in the United States in 2025, given to 185 babies, and peaked at #906 in 2022. Common nicknames: Z.
How popular is Zen 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 Zen mean, and where does it come from?
Zen is the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese chan, itself from the Sanskrit dhyana — meditation — and the name of the school of Buddhism that reached Japan in the twelfth century and shaped its gardens, its tea and its swordsmanship. In Japanese, zen written differently also means goodness. American records hold the name from 1969; it entered the top thousand in 2022. Three letters and a single syllable, it sits with Neo, Kai and Ace among the shortest modern boys' names.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
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Sibling Name Ideas for Zen
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Zen mean?
Zen is a boy name of Japanese origin meaning "Meditation." Zen is the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese chan, itself from the Sanskrit dhyana — meditation — and the name of the school of Buddhism that reached Japan in the twelfth century and shaped its gardens, its tea and its swordsmanship. In Japanese, zen written differently also means goodness.
How do you pronounce Zen?
Zen is pronounced ZEN. Common variations include Zenn, Zenith, Zane.
Is Zen a boy name?
Yes, Zen is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Z.