Zivaזִיוָה

/ZEE-vah/

HebrewGirl

Ziva is a Hebrew girl's name pronounced /ZEE-vah/. Radiating light and splendor, this name evokes brightness and a cheerful spirit.

Meaning of Ziva

Radiating light and splendor, this name evokes brightness and a cheerful spirit.

The name Ziva originates from the Hebrew word 'ziv' (זִיו), which translates to brilliance, luster, or a glowing aura. Historically, the term was used in ancient Hebrew to describe the divine radiance of the heavens or the splendor of the spring season.

Origin
Hebrew
Pronunciation
/ZEE-vah/

Cultural background

In Israel, Ziva is a classic feminine name that remains recognizable, though it peaked in popularity during the mid-20th century. In Western countries, it gained significant recognition through popular media in the early 2000s.

Variations & nicknames

  • Ziv
  • Zivit
  • Zivah
  • Zeeva
  • Sieva

Famous people named Ziva

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Ziva David

    A major fictional protagonist on the long-running television series NCIS

    Television · 2005–2020

  • Ziva Kunda

    Social psychologist known for her work on motivated reasoning

    Science · 1955–2004

  • Ziva Rodann

    Israeli-American actress and former Hollywood starlet

    Film · 1950s–1960s

  • Ziva Ben-Porat

    Israeli literary theorist and professor at Tel Aviv University

    Literature · 1970s–present

  • Ziva Postec

    Film editor known for her work on the documentary Shoah

    Film · 1960s–present

Frequently asked about Ziva

What does Ziva mean?
Ziva is a Hebrew name meaning 'brilliance', 'brightness', or 'radiance'.
How do you pronounce Ziva?
It is most commonly pronounced ZEE-vah, with the emphasis on the first syllable.
Is Ziva a boy or girl name?
Ziva is traditionally a feminine name in Hebrew culture; the masculine version of the name is Ziv.
Is Ziva a biblical name?
While the word 'Ziv' appears in the Hebrew Bible as the name of a month, Ziva itself is a modern Hebrew feminine derivative.

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