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Zailey
Pronounced ZAY-lee /ΛzeΙͺ.li/High
Meaning: Contemporary invented name combining a Z- prefix (possibly from Zayla or Zoe: life) with the popular English -ley suffix (meadow or clearing)Medium
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
Zailey is a contemporary American invented name with no established ancient etymology. The Zay- element may draw on names like Zayla, Zaylah, or Zoe (from Greek zoe, meaning 'life'), while the -ley ending echoes popular names like Hailey, Hayley, and Kaylee. This construction follows a consistent pattern in 21st-century American naming.
Zailey emerged in the early 21st century as part of the Z-name trend and the -ley/-lee suffix trend that both peaked in the 2000s and 2010s. It remains a very rare name, distinctive precisely because of its unusual initial letter combined with a familiar ending. Its upbeat, rhythmic sound makes it feel both modern and approachable.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Zailey mean?
Zailey is a modern invented name with no fixed ancient meaning. It may combine elements suggesting 'life' (Zay-) with 'meadow' (-ley), but it is primarily chosen for its fresh, upbeat sound.
How do you pronounce Zailey?
Zailey is pronounced ZAY-lee (/ΛzeΙͺ.li/), with stress on the first syllable.
Is Zailey a boy or girl name?
Zailey is a girl name used exclusively for girls.
How popular is Zailey?
Zailey is a very rare name, making it an especially distinctive choice for parents who want something truly uncommon.