Zora

♀ Girl

Pronounced ZOR-uh /ˈzɔːr.ə/High

Meaning: From Slavic zora meaning dawn or the glow of morning light, related to the root zor meaning light, shine, or morning; a name of luminous natural beautyHigh

In 30 seconds: Zora is a luminous Slavic name meaning dawn with the bold appeal of a Z-initial. Made famous by author Zora Neale Hurston, it carries both natural radiance and African American literary prestige.

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Origin HighSlavic

MeaningFrom Slavic zora meaning dawn or the glow of morning light, related to the root zor meaning light, shine, or morning; a name of luminous natural beauty

U.S. rank (2025)#969 ↘ Falling

2025 U.S. births264 girls (0.02% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2019

Total births (all-time)≈ 10,199

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Zora derives from the Slavic root zora meaning dawn, related to the goddess Zorya of Slavic mythology, a guardian deity associated with the morning and evening star. The name has been used throughout the Slavic world for centuries.

In the United States, Zora gained its most celebrated association through Zora Neale Hurston, whose work blending African American vernacular and anthropological insight made her a towering literary figure. The name is now associated with both Slavic heritage and Black literary tradition.

Did you know? Zora Neale Hurston (1891–1960), the author of Their Eyes Were Watching God, is considered one of the most influential writers of the 20th century and a central figure of the Harlem Renaissance. Her novel was largely forgotten before Alice Walker's 1975 essay helped revive her reputation.

Overall data confidence 94%

Behind the Name — Zora — Slavic dawn etymologyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

ZorahZoranaZorya

Nicknames

ZoZori

Famous Bearers

★Zora Neale Hurston (1891–1960)
American anthropologist, author, and central figure of the Harlem Renaissance, best known for her novel Their Eyes Were Watching God.

If you like Zora…

Aurora— shares the dawn-light meaning and the radiant natural imagery

Alba— same dawn meaning in Latin/Italian tradition with a soft two-syllable form

Zarya— closest Slavic variant sharing the dawn root and Z-initial sparkle

Luna— same celestial light-name tradition with a soft, bright two-syllable appeal

Frequently Asked

What does the name Zora mean?

Zora means dawn or morning glow in Slavic, from the root zor meaning light or shine.

How do you pronounce Zora?

It is said ZOR-uh, with two syllables and stress on the first.

Who is Zora Neale Hurston?

Zora Neale Hurston (1891-1960) was an American author and anthropologist, a central figure of the Harlem Renaissance, best known for her novel Their Eyes Were Watching God.

Is Zora a Slavic name?

Yes, Zora is a Slavic name meaning dawn. It is used throughout Slavic countries and has also become associated with African American literary tradition through Zora Neale Hurston.