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Oz
Pronounced OZ /Ιz/High
Meaning: From Hebrew oz, meaning strength, might, or courage; used as an independent name and as a short form of Osher or OziasHigh
Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880βpresent). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
In Hebrew, oz (Χ’ΦΉΧ) is a common noun meaning strength, might, or power, used throughout the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). As a given name, Oz has been used in Israel since the mid-20th century, either as a standalone name or as a nickname for longer Hebrew names such as Ozias or Uzziah. The name is celebrated for its directness and power-packed brevity.
In the English-speaking world, Oz is known primarily from L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900) and its many adaptations, though Baum's fictional land gave the name a fantastical association quite separate from its Hebrew roots. As a given name in Western contexts, Oz is often chosen for its cool, minimalist sound. It has gained modest popularity as parents seek ultra-short names with maximum impact.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
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Oz Peretz (1994βpresent)Israeli professional footballer who has played as a goalkeeper for clubs in the Israeli leagues.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Oz mean?
Oz is a Hebrew name meaning strength, might, or courage, derived from the Hebrew word oz.
How do you pronounce Oz?
Oz is a single syllable, pronounced simply as OZ.
Is Oz a boy or girl name?
Oz is used as a boys name.
How popular is Oz?
Oz is well used in Israel as a standalone name and is a rare but distinctive choice in English-speaking countries.