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Zenaida
Pronounced zeh-NY-dah /zɛˈnaɪ.də/Medium
Meaning: Of Zeus, belonging to Zeus; from Greek Zenais, derived from the god's nameHigh
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Zenaida descends from Greek Zenais, a name formed from Zeus, king of the Olympian gods. St. Zenaida, venerated as a first-century physician who treated the poor without charge, carried the name into the Christian calendar, and Russian, Greek, and Spanish-speaking families have used it ever since.
The name took particular root in Spain, Latin America, and the Philippines, where Zenaida and its nickname Zeny remain familiar among older generations. In the U.S. it is rare and richly storied — saint, princess, and songbird in one name.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Zenaida Manfugás (1922–2012)Cuban-born concert pianist celebrated for her interpretations of Spanish repertoire.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Zenaida mean?
Zenaida comes from Greek Zenais and means 'of Zeus' or 'belonging to Zeus'.
How do you pronounce Zenaida?
In English it's said zeh-NY-dah /zɛˈnaɪ.də/ — three syllables, stress on the second; Spanish speakers say seh-nah-EE-dah.
Is Zenaida a boy or girl name?
Zenaida is a girl's name.
How popular is Zenaida?
Zenaida is a rare name in the U.S. today, most familiar in Filipino and Latin American families.