Ziva

זִיוָה

• Gender: Female
• Origin: Modern Hebrew
• Meaning: bright, radiant

• Ziva takes its meaning from the Hebrew word for brightness and radiance, connecting it to the luminous quality of the spring month of Iyyar. It is a modern Israeli favorite that has been a staple in Tel Aviv for years, with a sleek, energetic presence that translates effortlessly across cultures. For parents drawn to crisp, contemporary names like Ava or Zoe but wanting something with genuine Israeli roots, Ziva is a stunning alternative.

  American audiences fell in love with the name through the fierce and beloved Ziva David on "NCIS," the Israeli-born Mossad agent who became one of the most popular characters in TV history. Its two open syllables give it a warmth that harder-edged names lack, while the strong Z opening keeps it punchy and memorable. A name that literally means radiance and has pop-culture star power to match — what more could you want?

• Alternate Spellings: Zivah, Zeeva, Zeevah
• Potential Sibling Name:
  Hila
  ,
  Aderet
  ,
  Ori
  ,
  Lev
• Theme: light