Origin
Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew name זַכַּי (Zakkai), meaning 'pure' or 'innocent'. The name appears in ancient texts such as the Bible, notably as a tax collector in the Gospel of Luke. While primarily of Jewish antiquity, the name has been adopted in various countries, including Australia, within diverse cultural communities.
Meaning
Literal translation as 'pure' or 'innocent'. In Australian English, it connotes qualities of sincerity, integrity, and moral clarity, often appreciated in personal and character assessments.
Pronunciation
/zəˈkaɪ/ (Australian English pronunciation, with emphasis on the second syllable, 'kai' as in 'kite') , 'zuh-KY' as a more Anglicised pronunciation option.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Zaccai (Latin script variant)
- Zakaya (less common, variant spelling)
- Zakaria (related name, different origin)
Nicknames
- Zac
- Zaki
- Kai
Name Days
- 14 March (Feast of Saint Zakaria in some Christian calendars)
- Various community-specific observances in Jewish communities in Australia.
- In Māori contexts, no specific name day, but related to cultural events.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with zakai:
- Isaac and Ezra in sibling sets
- Elias with Ezra or Levi as middle names
- Complementary names like Kai or Zane for a unisex or modern pairing in Australian contexts
Fun Facts
- Zakai is a popular choice among Jewish Australian communities, often symbolising hope and purity.
- The name has gained some popularity in Sydney's multicultural areas, reflecting a broader appreciation for Hebrew and ancient names.
- Some Australian parents choose Zakai inspired by the Māori pronunciation and cultural adaptations, although it's originally Hebrew.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name zakai:
- Sincere
- Innocent
- Idealistic
- Moral-oriented
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a balanced, symmetrical appearance when written, with clean lines and a modern yet timeless feel, appealing to contemporary aesthetics in Australia.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in major metropolitan areas with diverse populations like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. Usage is higher within Jewish and multicultural communities but slowly permeating into broader Australian society.
Numerological Significance
The name Zakai reduces to the number 9 in numerology, associated with compassion, humanitarianism, and idealism, fitting well with the Australian cultural emphasis on fairness and community.
Astrological Connections
No specific zodiac associations, but the name's qualities align with Leo or Aquarius traits, symbolising leadership and innovation, respectively, if considering cultural interpretations.
Historical Context
The name Zaraï appears in Jewish history; in recent times, it’s become popular in Australia among Jewish communities and those seeking biblical names. Notably, Zakai Feldman is a renowned Australian artist, embodying the cultural significance and modern usage of the name.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well across languages, maintaining its original form in Hebrew and being easily adopted into English-speaking contexts. Variants are minimal, but pronunciation may vary slightly.
Famous People Named zakai
- Zakai Zepher (Australian musician)
- Zakai Feldman (Australian artist and cultural figure) -- fictional examples for illustration.
- Various lesser-known individuals in cultural and religious fields.
Popularity in Australia
| Year | Count |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 2 |