Zippora

Girl Name
Origin:hebrew
Pronunciation:/zɪˈpɔː.rə/

Zippora: a female name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird". It derives from the Hebrew word "Ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh".

Zippora has maintained its appeal as a feminine name in modern times while preserving its Hebrew roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Hebrew “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Zippora

Quick facts about Zippora
OriginHebrew
GenderGirl 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 “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird.” Zipporah is mentioned in the Book of Exodus as the wife of Moses, and the daughter of Reuel / Jethro, the priest or prince of Midian. In the Book of Chronicles, two of her grandsons are mentioned: Shebuel, son of Gershom, and Rehabiah, son of Eliezer.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh

How to Pronounce Zippora

Zippora is pronounced /zɪˈpɔː.rə/(Hebrew)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Zippor-a
  2. Say it like: "ZIPPOR-A"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

This name has found popularity across italian, and german speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.

italiangerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Zippora
What does the name Zippora mean?
Zippora means "This name derives from the Hebrew “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird.” Zipporah is mentioned in the Book of Exodus as the wife of Moses, and the daughter of Reuel / Jethro, the priest or prince of Midian. In the Book of Chronicles, two of her grandsons are mentioned: Shebuel, son of Gershom, and Rehabiah, son of Eliezer.". The name comes from Ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh. In its original form, the name derives from Ṣippôrā (צִפוֹרָה). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Zippora for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird.” Zipporah is mentioned in the Book of Exodus as the wife of Moses, and the daughter of Reuel / Jethro, the priest or prince of Midian. In the Book of Chronicles, two of her grandsons are mentioned: Shebuel, son of Gershom, and Rehabiah, son of Eliezer." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Zippora'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 Zippora?
Zippora is a hebrew name. The name traces back to Ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh. The original form Ṣippôrā (צִפוֹרָה) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its hebrew roots, Zippora spread to become common in italian, german. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird.” Zipporah is mentioned in the Book of Exodus as the wife of Moses, and the daughter of Reuel / Jethro, the priest or prince of Midian. In the Book of Chronicles, two of her grandsons are mentioned: Shebuel, son of Gershom, and Rehabiah, son of Eliezer." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Zippora a boy or girl name?
Zippora is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In hebrew tradition, Zippora has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird.” Zipporah is mentioned in the Book of Exodus as the wife of Moses, and the daughter of Reuel / Jethro, the priest or prince of Midian. In the Book of Chronicles, two of her grandsons are mentioned: Shebuel, son of Gershom, and Rehabiah, son of Eliezer." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Zippora?
Zippora is pronounced "/zɪˈpɔː.rə/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Zippora is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in italian, german, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Zippora can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh influences how Zippora sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Zippora?
Zippora is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Zippora offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Zippora'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 “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird.” Zipporah is mentioned in the Book of Exodus as the wife of Moses, and the daughter of Reuel / Jethro, the priest or prince of Midian. In the Book of Chronicles, two of her grandsons are mentioned: Shebuel, son of Gershom, and Rehabiah, son of Eliezer." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Zippora holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Zippora commonly used?
Zippora is common in italian and german naming traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Zippora found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird.” Zipporah is mentioned in the Book of Exodus as the wife of Moses, and the daughter of Reuel / Jethro, the priest or prince of Midian. In the Book of Chronicles, two of her grandsons are mentioned: Shebuel, son of Gershom, and Rehabiah, son of Eliezer." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Zippora into their naming traditions. A child named Zippora will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Zippora is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Zippora?
Zippora 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 “ṣippôrā > tsippôrâh,” meaning “bird.” Zipporah is mentioned in the Book of Exodus as the wife of Moses, and the daughter of Reuel / Jethro, the priest or prince of Midian. In the Book of Chronicles, two of her grandsons are mentioned: Shebuel, son of Gershom, and Rehabiah, son of Eliezer." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In hebrew culture, where Zippora 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 Zippora sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Zippora often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In italian communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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