Zacchaeus: a male name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent".It derives from the Hebrew word "zákh > Zakkay".
The name Zacchaeus carries a rich history rooted in Hebrew culture. Derived from "zákh > Zakkay", this masculine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Hebrew-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Zacchaeus
Quick facts about Zacchaeus
Origin
Hebrew
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Uncommon
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent.” Zacchaeus was a chief tax-collector at Jericho. In Eastern Orthodox and Greek-Catholic Churches of Slavic tradition, Zacchaeus’s Gospel account is read on the last Sunday preceding the liturgical preparation for Great Lent. For this reason, that Sunday is known as “Zacchaeus Sunday.” At Er-riha (Jericho), there is a large, venerable-looking square tower, which by tradition is named the House of Zacchaeus.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
zákh > Zakkay
How to Pronounce Zacchaeus
Zacchaeus is pronounced /zəˈkiː.əs/(Hebrew)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Zac-cha-eus
Say it like: "ZAC-CHA-EUS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Frequently Asked Questions About Zacchaeus
What does the name Zacchaeus mean?
Zacchaeus means "This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent.” Zacchaeus was a chief tax-collector at Jericho. In Eastern Orthodox and Greek-Catholic Churches of Slavic tradition, Zacchaeus’s Gospel account is read on the last Sunday preceding the liturgical preparation for Great Lent. For this reason, that Sunday is known as “Zacchaeus Sunday.” At Er-riha (Jericho), there is a large, venerable-looking square tower, which by tradition is named the House of Zacchaeus.". The name comes from zákh > Zakkay. In its original form, the name derives from zákh (זַךְ)� Zakkay (זַכָּי) Zakchaî�os (Ζακχαῖος). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Zacchaeus for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent.” Zacchaeus was a chief tax-collector at Jericho. In Eastern Orthodox and Greek-Catholic Churches of Slavic tradition, Zacchaeus’s Gospel account is read on the last Sunday preceding the liturgical preparation for Great Lent. For this reason, that Sunday is known as “Zacchaeus Sunday.” At Er-riha (Jericho), there is a large, venerable-looking square tower, which by tradition is named the House of Zacchaeus." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Zacchaeus offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Zacchaeus?
Zacchaeus is a hebrew name. The name traces back to zákh > Zakkay. The original form zákh (זַךְ)� Zakkay (זַכָּי) Zakchaî�os (Ζακχαῖος) shows the name's roots in its native language. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent.” Zacchaeus was a chief tax-collector at Jericho. In Eastern Orthodox and Greek-Catholic Churches of Slavic tradition, Zacchaeus’s Gospel account is read on the last Sunday preceding the liturgical preparation for Great Lent. For this reason, that Sunday is known as “Zacchaeus Sunday.” At Er-riha (Jericho), there is a large, venerable-looking square tower, which by tradition is named the House of Zacchaeus." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Zacchaeus a boy or girl name?
Zacchaeus is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In hebrew tradition, Zacchaeus has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent.” Zacchaeus was a chief tax-collector at Jericho. In Eastern Orthodox and Greek-Catholic Churches of Slavic tradition, Zacchaeus’s Gospel account is read on the last Sunday preceding the liturgical preparation for Great Lent. For this reason, that Sunday is known as “Zacchaeus Sunday.” At Er-riha (Jericho), there is a large, venerable-looking square tower, which by tradition is named the House of Zacchaeus." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Zacchaeus?
Zacchaeus is pronounced "/zəˈkiː.əs/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Zacchaeus is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Zacchaeus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root zákh > Zakkay influences how Zacchaeus sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Zacchaeus?
Zacchaeus is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Zacchaeus gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Zacchaeus's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent.” Zacchaeus was a chief tax-collector at Jericho. In Eastern Orthodox and Greek-Catholic Churches of Slavic tradition, Zacchaeus’s Gospel account is read on the last Sunday preceding the liturgical preparation for Great Lent. For this reason, that Sunday is known as “Zacchaeus Sunday.” At Er-riha (Jericho), there is a large, venerable-looking square tower, which by tradition is named the House of Zacchaeus." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Zacchaeus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What is the cultural significance of Zacchaeus?
Zacchaeus carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent.” Zacchaeus was a chief tax-collector at Jericho. In Eastern Orthodox and Greek-Catholic Churches of Slavic tradition, Zacchaeus’s Gospel account is read on the last Sunday preceding the liturgical preparation for Great Lent. For this reason, that Sunday is known as “Zacchaeus Sunday.” At Er-riha (Jericho), there is a large, venerable-looking square tower, which by tradition is named the House of Zacchaeus." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In hebrew culture, where Zacchaeus originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Zacchaeus sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Zacchaeus often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.