All about the name

Zipporah

Female

« Zipporah is a unique Hebrew name meaning "bird," reflecting beauty and freedom. It's derived from the root word "tzipor" and is notable as the wife of Moses in the Bible, displaying courage by saving him from an angel of death sent by God. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Zipporah is a unique and distinctive name of Hebrew origin. It means "bird" in Hebrew, reflecting the beauty and freedom associated with these creatures. The name Zipporah is derived from the root word "tzipor," which signifies "bird." In the Bible, Zipporah appears as the wife of Moses, the prophet who led the Israelites out of Egypt. She was a Midianite woman whom Moses married while tending his father-in-law's flock in Midian. The story goes that after an encounter with God at the burning bush, Moses needed to circumcise his son before he could meet with Pharaoh. Zipporah performed this act and saved her husband from being killed by an angel of death sent by God. Throughout history, Zipporah has been a rare but notable name, often chosen for its biblical significance or unique sound. It has gained some popularity in recent years among parents seeking distinctive and meaningful names for their daughters. Despite its rarity, Zipporah remains a beautiful and resonant choice with deep roots in ancient Jewish culture and history. In terms of pronunciation, Zipporah is typically said as "ZIP-oh-ruh" or "ZIP-or-rah," depending on preference and regional variation. While it may take some getting used to for those unfamiliar with the name, many find its unique sound appealing and memorable. Overall, Zipporah is a captivating choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name with a rich history and deep cultural significance. Its biblical roots add depth and character to this beautiful Hebrew name, making it an attractive option for families looking to honor their Jewish heritage or simply appreciate the beauty of birds in flight.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Zipporah since 1880

Total births
2,491
Total since 1880
Peak year
2018
86 births
in 2023
67
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+23%
vs previous 5 years