Zea is a unique and distinctive name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "zea," which means "yarrow." Yarrow is a type of herb that has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times.
The name Zea has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. In Roman mythology, Zea was the goddess of yarrow and was often depicted as a woman holding a stalk of yarrow in her hand. She was revered for her ability to heal wounds and alleviate pain, making her an important figure in Roman medicine.
In more recent times, the name Zea has been used by several notable individuals, including Zea Mayo, a prominent American actress known for her roles in various films and television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s. The name has also been featured in literature, most notably in the novel "The House of Zea" by Australian author Christina Stead.
Today, Zea remains a rare but captivating name that evokes images of ancient mythology, healing, and natural beauty. Its Latin origins give it a classic and sophisticated feel, while its unique spelling makes it stand out from more common names. Parents who choose the name Zea for their child may be drawn to its rich history, its connection to nature, or simply its appealing sound. Regardless of the reason behind its selection, the name Zea is sure to make a strong impression wherever it is heard.
The name Zea has seen a varied trend in popularity over the past three decades in the United States. Between 1992 and 2022, there were a total of 279 babies named Zea.
In the early years recorded, from 1992 to 2006, the number of newborns given the name Zea ranged from 5 to 8 per year. However, starting in 2007, we began to see an upward trend with a significant increase in popularity. In 2008, there were 13 births, followed by 19 births in both 2009 and 2011.
The peak of popularity for the name Zea occurred in 2013, with a notable 23 babies being named Zea that year. This was more than double the number of births recorded in any previous year.
After this peak, the popularity of the name Zea started to decline again. Between 2014 and 2022, the number of newborns named Zea ranged from 6 to 12 per year, indicating a return to levels similar to those seen in the early years recorded.
Despite fluctuations in popularity over time, the name Zea remains relatively uncommon compared to other names. However, it has maintained a consistent presence among baby names in the United States over the past three decades.