Zola
/ZOH-lah/
Zola is a Zulu (South Africa) girl's name pronounced /ZOH-lah/. A serene and peaceful name meaning to be calm or tranquil.
Meaning of Zola
A serene and peaceful name meaning to be calm or tranquil.
The name Zola is derived from the isiZulu verb 'ukuzola,' which translates to 'to be calm,' 'to be still,' or 'to be tranquil.' It reflects a cultural value placed on a peaceful temperament and a composed spirit.
- Origin
- Zulu (South Africa)
- Pronunciation
- /ZOH-lah/
Cultural background
Zola is a popular unisex name in South Africa, though it is frequently given to girls to denote a serene nature. It remains a classic choice within Zulu and Xhosa speaking communities.
Variations & nicknames
- Zolani
- Zoleka
- Zoli
- Zolile
Famous people named Zola
Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.
Zola Budd
South African middle-distance runner who competed in the 1984 and 1992 Olympics.
Sport · 1980s-1990s
Zola Nombona
Award-winning South African actress known for her roles in domestic television dramas.
Film · 2010s-present
Zola Jesus
American singer-songwriter and producer (born Nika Roza Danilova).
Music · 2000s-present
Zola Taylor
American singer and the original female member of The Platters.
Music · 1950s-1960s
Zola Mashariki
Prominent African-American film producer and former studio executive.
Film · 2000s-present
Frequently asked about Zola
- What does Zola mean?
- Zola is a Zulu name meaning 'calm', 'peaceful', or 'tranquil'.
- How do you pronounce Zola?
- It is pronounced ZOH-lah, with a soft 'o' sound as in 'go'.
- Is Zola a boy or girl name?
- In South Africa, Zola is used for both boys and girls, though internationally it is most commonly used as a girl's name.
- Is Zola a common name?
- It is a well-established and common name in South Africa and has seen sporadic usage in Europe and the United States.
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