Zen is a unique baby name that immediately brings forth thoughts of peace due to its connection to meditation. Zen is also a fun, short unisex name. Keep reading to discover more information about the name.
Meaning and Origin of the name Zen:
Zen is a cute name for a boy or a girl of Japanese origin. It means “meditation” and creates feelings of calmness and peacefulness.
The baby name Zen comes from the word “zen,” which has Japanese, Chinese, and even Sanskrit roots. It is derived from the Japanese word “kana,” which is the Japanese pronunciation of a middle Chinese word “chán.” “Chán” is the abbreviation of “chánnà” and is derived from the Sanskrit word “dhyāna” (meaning “contemplation,” “meditative state,” and “absorption”).
Symbolism of the name Zen:
As a baby name, Zen can symbolize one who will have a more inquisitive, wise, and peaceful nature. Zen has a pleasing vibe that is more artistic, creative, and optimistic.
Nicknames for the name Zen:
As a short baby name, Zen doesn’t have popular or common nicknames. However, it is possible to come up with some fun, cute nicknames. You don't have to use a common nickname. Check out this list of ideas for possible nicknames for your baby.
- Zens
- Zee
- Zee-zee
- Zenny
- Zenni
- En
Style of the name Zen:
Unique
Gender of the name Zen:
Zen is a unisex name as it’s used for baby boys and baby girls.
Pronunciation of the name Zen:
ZEN
Number of syllables in the name Zen:
One
Emotion evoked from the name Zen:
When used as a baby name, Zen invokes feelings filled with peace, tranquility, and relaxation.
Alternative spellings for the name Zen:
There are no common alternate spellings for the baby name Zen.
Popularity of the name Zen:
According to the Social Security Index, the baby name Zen has yet to break into the top 1000 of popular names starting from the 1900s and onwards.
Related names for the name Zen:
- Zarin
- Ren
- Zeno
- Haruko
Great middle names for Zen and their meanings:
Baby Girls
- Freda (peaceful)
- Iro (hero; color; peace)
- Sofia (wisdom)
- Temperance (virtue name)
- Serenity (peaceful)
- Lana (rock; handsome)
- Julia (youthful; sky father)
- Kehlani (sea and sky)
Baby Boys
- Pax (peaceful)
- Sora (sky)
- Vivek (wisdom, distinction)
- Alfie (wise counselor)
- Humphrey (peaceful warrior)
- Rainer (wise army)
- Ansel (with divine protection)
- Baris (peace)
Famous people with the name Zen:
- Zen Luzniak (American soccer defender)
- Zen Gesner (American actor)
- Zen Kajihara (Japanese theatre actor)
Zens in movies/pop culture:
- Zen (computer character from TV show Blake’s 7)
- Zen the Intergalactic Ninja (comic book character)
- Zen (character from the novel The Suitcase Kid)
- “Zen” (2009 film)
- “Zen” (2007 film)
- “Zen Noir” (2006 film)
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