Zachæus

Boy Name
Origin:hebrew
Pronunciation:/zɑːˈkeɪ.əs/

Zachæus: 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".

Zachæus is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Hebrew “Zakkay,” which in turn derives from “zákh,” meaning “pure, the pure one, clean, righteous, innocent". Its Hebrew origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Zachæus

Quick facts about Zachæus
OriginHebrew
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately popular

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 Zachæus

Zachæus is pronounced /zɑːˈkeɪ.əs/(Hebrew)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Zac-hæu-s
  2. Say it like: "ZAC-HÆU-S"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times
Frequently Asked Questions About Zachæus
What does the name Zachæus mean?
Zachæus 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 Zachæus 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. While not the most common choice, Zachæus's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. 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 Zachæus?
Zachæus 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 Zachæus a boy or girl name?
Zachæus 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, Zachæus 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 Zachæus?
Zachæus is pronounced "/zɑːˈkeɪ.əs/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Zachæus is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Zachæus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root zákh > Zakkay influences how Zachæus sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Zachæus?
Zachæus is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Zachæus offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Zachæus'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, Zachæus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What is the cultural significance of Zachæus?
Zachæus 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 Zachæus 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 Zachæus sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Zachæus 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.

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