Girls · #69 in 2025
Zoey: Meaning, Origin & Popularity
- Origin
- English variant of Zoe
- Meaning
- Life
- Pronunciation
- ZOH-ee
- Nickname options
- Zo
Origin and meaning
Zoey is an English spelling variant of Zoe, the Greek name meaning life. The final Y makes the two-syllable pronunciation visually explicit for many English readers. Its origin and meaning remain connected with Zoe.
U.S. popularity
Zoey ranked #69 for girls in the United States in 2025, with 3,427 girls given this spelling. Its highest recorded U.S. rank was #20, reached in 2012. Historical coverage: 1880–2025. Peak refers to rank, not the largest number of births.
Source: Social Security Administration; historical peaks calculated from its national name files. Rankings count each spelling separately within the listed sex.
The Hello Baby Names take
Zoey feels lively and approachable. The Z provides a bold opening, while the ending makes it feel friendly and familiar. It suits parents who enjoy a short name with a clear spark and prefer a spelling that reflects the everyday sound.
Things to consider
Zoey and Zoe are counted separately, but they sound the same in English. Their combined presence matters more than either rank if avoiding duplicates is your goal.
If you love Zoey, consider…
- Zoe: Keeps the sound in the shorter traditional spelling.
- Chloe: Offers a similar ending and bright rhythm.
- Riley: Adds a more casual surname-style option.
- Lucy: Keeps the cheerful, uncomplicated feeling.
- Ruby: Brings a warmer vintage sound.
- Ivy: Offers another short name with a vivid consonant.
- Daisy: Adds a sunny floral association.
- Mia: Makes the open-vowel style more compact.