Zia
Zia is a girl name of Arabic origin meaning “Light, splendour”, pronounced ZEE-ah. It ranked #1477 in the United States in 2025, given to 146 babies, and peaked at #1192 in 2024. Common nicknames: Zi, Zizi.
How popular is Zia 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 Zia mean, and where does it come from?
Zia is the Arabic diya, "light" or "radiance," used across the Muslim world for both sexes — in Pakistan it is generally a man's name. It is separately the Italian word for aunt, a Hebrew name meaning to tremble, and the name of the sun symbol on the flag of New Mexico, taken from the Zia Pueblo. American records hold it from 1976, and it has stayed rare, rising gently as short vowel-led girls' names continue to gain ground.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Zia
- Zia Mohyeddin — Pakistani actor and broadcaster
- Zia Haider Rahman — British novelist
Similar Names to Zia
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Sibling Name Ideas for Zia
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Zia mean?
Zia is a girl name of Arabic origin meaning "Light, splendour." Zia is the Arabic diya, "light" or "radiance," used across the Muslim world for both sexes — in Pakistan it is generally a man's name. It is separately the Italian word for aunt, a Hebrew name meaning to tremble, and the name of the sun symbol on the flag of New Mexico, taken from the Zia Pueblo.
How do you pronounce Zia?
Zia is pronounced ZEE-ah. Common variations include Ziya, Diya, Zya.
Is Zia a girl name?
Yes, Zia is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Zi, Zizi.