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Origin and meaning of the name Zeza

What is the origin of the name Zeza?

The origin of the given name "Zeza" is not definitively clear as it can be derived from various sources and cultures. However, one possible origin is Hebrew, where Zeza (צֵאזָה) is a variant of the name Tzitzacah or Tsitsakah, which appears in the Old Testament as one of the spies sent by Moses to explore the Promised Land. Another possibility is that it's a diminutive form of names like Susanna (Susi-Zeza) or Maria (Marijke-Zeza). In modern times, Zeza may also be used as a pet name or a shortened version of other names in various languages and cultures.

Learn more about the origin of the name Zeza

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Zeza

The name Zeza is of Hebrew origin and means "God is my laughter." This name is a diminutive form of the name Sarah, which means "lady" or "noblewoman" in Hebrew. It gained popularity in various cultures, particularly in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, as a nickname for girls named Sara or Sarah. In some cases, Zeza may also be used independently as a given name, emphasizing the cheerful and joyful nature associated with laughter. The name Zeza is warm and friendly, reflecting a positive and optimistic character. It has been used in various contexts throughout history, including literature, music, and popular culture.

Character traits associated with the name Zeza

Zeza is often perceived as a creative and innovative individual, demonstrating an uncanny knack for thinking outside the box. Her curiosity and eagerness to learn are notable attributes that set her apart. Zeza possesses strong communication skills, allowing her to effectively express her ideas and engage others in meaningful conversations. She tends to be compassionate and empathetic, showing a genuine concern for the well-being of those around her. Zeza's assertive nature enables her to stand up for her beliefs while remaining open to diverse perspectives. However, she can sometimes come across as impulsive or headstrong due to her unwavering determination. Overall, Zeza is a dynamic and engaging personality who continuously challenges the status quo and strives for personal growth.

Popularity of the name Zeza

The name Zéza is less common in English-speaking countries, but it holds significance in some Portuguese-speaking regions, particularly Portugal and Brazil. In Portugal, it's mainly used as a diminutive for names ending in "Ze," such as Maria Zeze or José Zezinho. In Brazil, it can be used as a standalone name and is often associated with playfulness and creativity due to its association with the popular children's character Zé Carioca from Disney's Rio films. However, its usage outside these contexts in English-speaking countries is relatively uncommon, making it a less popular choice globally.

Famous people with the name Zeza

Zeza is an uncommon name, but it has been associated with several notable individuals. One of the most well-known is Zeze Millar (born 1946), an English actress who rose to prominence during the 1970s and 1980s. She is best known for her roles in films such as "The Boy Friend" and "Daughter of River Kuqi."

In the realm of music, Zeza Kozarnowicz (born 1935) is a Polish singer and songwriter who has been active since the 1960s. She is known for her distinctive voice and successful career in Poland, with numerous hit songs to her name.

Another noteworthy individual named Zeza is Zeze Tantillo (born 1937), an Italian-American actor who was a regular on the popular television series "The Sopranos." He portrayed the character Carlo Gervase, the brother of mob boss Tony Soprano.

Lastly, there's Zeza Bartsch (born 1963), a German model and actress who gained fame in the 1980s. She was a regular on the German television show "Guten Abend, Germania!" and has appeared in numerous films and advertising campaigns.

Variations of the name Zeza

The name Zéza can be variated and spelled differently across various languages and cultures. Here are some common variations:

* Zaza (Azerbaijani)
* Zézé (French diminutive)
* Zezka (Slovakian feminine form)
* Zezy (Hebrew short form)
* Zeta (Greek, Slavic, and American name derived from Zéza)
* Cécile (French name that sounds similar to Zéza)
* Tzipora (Hebrew name with a phonetic resemblance to Zéza)
* Sisca (Dutch diminutive of Cecilia, which sounds similar to Zéza)

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 26 July 2025

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