Zia

♀ Girl

Pronounced ZEE-uh /ˈziː.ə/High

Meaning: Light, splendor; from Arabic zia (light, radiance, splendor); also Italian for 'aunt'High

In 30 seconds: A short luminous name meaning 'light' or 'radiance' in Arabic, and 'aunt' in Italian. Two syllables, three letters — one of the shortest and most radiant names in the catalog.

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Origin HighArabic, Italian

MeaningLight, splendor; from Arabic zia (light, radiance, splendor); also Italian for 'aunt'

U.S. rank (2025)#1477 ↘ Falling

2025 U.S. births146 girls (0.01% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2024

Total births (all-time)≈ 3,226

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

Zia derives from Arabic zia (light, radiance, splendor). In Italian, zia simply means 'aunt.' The name has been used in Arabic-speaking communities and in Italian families. The Zia symbol of New Mexico has given the name additional American resonance.

Zia appeared in U.S. birth data from the 2000s and ranked #1195 for girls in 2024.

Did you know? The Zia symbol — a sun with four groups of four rays — is sacred to the Zia Pueblo people of New Mexico and appears on the New Mexico state flag. The symbol represents life's four directions, four seasons, four times of day, and four stages of life.

Overall data confidence 89%

Behind the Name — Zia — Arabic/Italian etymologyU.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data

Variations

Ziya

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

★Zia Mohyeddin (1931-2023)
Pakistani and British actor, broadcaster and orator

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Nia— short vowel-rich name with the same compact elegance

Explore names like Zia

By themearabic short two-syllable italian light radiant

By meaningLight

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Zia mean?

Zia means 'light' or 'radiance' in Arabic. In Italian, zia means 'aunt.' The Zia Pueblo sun symbol of New Mexico also bears this name.

How do you pronounce Zia?

It's said ZEE-uh — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Zia a boy or girl name?

Zia is used as a girls' name.

How popular is Zia?

Zia ranked #1195 for U.S. girls in 2024.