Zuleikha

Girl Name
Pronunciation:/zuˈleɪkə/

Zuleikha: a female name of Old Persian origin meaning "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power)". It derives from the Old Persian word "Zulaykha".

The name Zuleikha carries a rich history rooted in Old Persian culture. Derived from "Zulaykha", this feminine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power). Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Old Persian-speaking communities.

Quick Facts About Zuleikha

Quick facts about Zuleikha
OriginOld Persian
GenderGirl name
PopularityUncommon

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 Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power). According to medieval legends, this was the name of Potiphar’s wife in the Bible. She has been the subject of many poems and tales. Yusuf and Zulaikha is the Quranic verse of Yusuf (Joseph) and Zulaikha (the person known in the Bible as Potiphar’s wife and whose name is not given there). It has been told and retold countless times in many languages spoken by Muslims, especially Persian. Zuleika and its variants is an uncommon first name for women and an equally unusual last name for both men and women.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Zulaykha

How to Pronounce Zuleikha

Zuleikha is pronounced /zuˈleɪkə/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Zul-eikha
  2. Say it like: "ZOOLEEEHKOOH"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Zuleikha is predominantly used in spanish speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

spanish
Frequently Asked Questions About Zuleikha
What does the name Zuleikha mean?
Zuleikha means "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power). According to medieval legends, this was the name of Potiphar’s wife in the Bible. She has been the subject of many poems and tales. Yusuf and Zulaikha is the Quranic verse of Yusuf (Joseph) and Zulaikha (the person known in the Bible as Potiphar’s wife and whose name is not given there). It has been told and retold countless times in many languages spoken by Muslims, especially Persian. Zuleika and its variants is an uncommon first name for women and an equally unusual last name for both men and women.". The name comes from Zulaykha. In its original form, the name derives from Zulaykha (زليخا). This old persian name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Zuleikha for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power). According to medieval legends, this was the name of Potiphar’s wife in the Bible. She has been the subject of many poems and tales. Yusuf and Zulaikha is the Quranic verse of Yusuf (Joseph) and Zulaikha (the person known in the Bible as Potiphar’s wife and whose name is not given there). It has been told and retold countless times in many languages spoken by Muslims, especially Persian. Zuleika and its variants is an uncommon first name for women and an equally unusual last name for both men and women." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Zuleikha offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Zuleikha?
Zuleikha is a old persian name. The name traces back to Zulaykha. The original form Zulaykha (زليخا) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to spanish naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old persian meaning "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power). According to medieval legends, this was the name of Potiphar’s wife in the Bible. She has been the subject of many poems and tales. Yusuf and Zulaikha is the Quranic verse of Yusuf (Joseph) and Zulaikha (the person known in the Bible as Potiphar’s wife and whose name is not given there). It has been told and retold countless times in many languages spoken by Muslims, especially Persian. Zuleika and its variants is an uncommon first name for women and an equally unusual last name for both men and women." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Zuleikha a boy or girl name?
Zuleikha is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In old persian tradition, Zuleikha has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power). According to medieval legends, this was the name of Potiphar’s wife in the Bible. She has been the subject of many poems and tales. Yusuf and Zulaikha is the Quranic verse of Yusuf (Joseph) and Zulaikha (the person known in the Bible as Potiphar’s wife and whose name is not given there). It has been told and retold countless times in many languages spoken by Muslims, especially Persian. Zuleika and its variants is an uncommon first name for women and an equally unusual last name for both men and women." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Zuleikha?
Zuleikha is pronounced "/zuˈleɪkə/". This pronunciation follows pe language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Zuleikha is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old persian names, listening to a native speaker say Zuleikha can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Zulaykha influences how Zuleikha sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Zuleikha?
Zuleikha is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Zuleikha gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Zuleikha's popularity may vary between old persian communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power). According to medieval legends, this was the name of Potiphar’s wife in the Bible. She has been the subject of many poems and tales. Yusuf and Zulaikha is the Quranic verse of Yusuf (Joseph) and Zulaikha (the person known in the Bible as Potiphar’s wife and whose name is not given there). It has been told and retold countless times in many languages spoken by Muslims, especially Persian. Zuleika and its variants is an uncommon first name for women and an equally unusual last name for both men and women." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Zuleikha holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Zuleikha commonly used?
Zuleikha is used primarily in spanish naming traditions. Though old persian in origin, Zuleikha found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “Zulaykha,” meaning “brilliant one, brilliant beauty, lovely one” (Egyptian: well-born, into power). According to medieval legends, this was the name of Potiphar’s wife in the Bible. She has been the subject of many poems and tales. Yusuf and Zulaikha is the Quranic verse of Yusuf (Joseph) and Zulaikha (the person known in the Bible as Potiphar’s wife and whose name is not given there). It has been told and retold countless times in many languages spoken by Muslims, especially Persian. Zuleika and its variants is an uncommon first name for women and an equally unusual last name for both men and women." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Zuleikha into their naming traditions. A child named Zuleikha 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, Zuleikha is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.

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

Similar Names

Explore More Names