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Tzipora

Girl Name #2,982 Most Popular Hidden Gem 3 Syllables

Moses's courageous wife — a biblical name meaning 'little bird'

Jewish Israeli Hebrew
Spiritual Vintage Unique Literary

Meaning & Origin

"bird, little bird"
Origin: Hebrew
Language: Hebrew
"female bird"
Origin: Biblical Hebrew
Language: Hebrew

The Story of Tzipora

Tzipora (also spelled Zipporah) comes from the Hebrew word 'tzippor,' meaning bird. In the Hebrew Bible, Zipporah is the daughter of Jethro (the Midianite priest) and the wife of Moses. She is a strong, decisive figure — it is she who circumcises her son to save Moses's life during their journey to Egypt, an act of remarkable courage and faith.

Tzipora remains primarily used in Israeli and Orthodox Jewish communities, where biblical names are deeply valued. The nickname Tzipi is particularly common in Israel — most famously borne by Tzipi Livni, one of Israel's most prominent politicians. The name is rarely used outside Jewish communities but holds deep meaning within them.

Zipporah/Tzipora is one of the few non-Israelite women celebrated in the Hebrew Bible. As Moses's wife, she is considered a righteous and courageous figure. In Jewish tradition, she represents wisdom, loyalty, and decisive action. The bird symbolism connects the name to freedom and spirit.

Fun Facts

  • Zipporah is one of the few non-Israelite women in the Bible who performs a religious act (circumcision) and is celebrated for her wisdom
  • Tzipi Livni served as Israel's Foreign Minister and was the first woman to lead the Kadima party

Tzipora in Other Languages

Arabic صفورة
Hebrew צִפּוֹרָה
English Zipporah
Yiddish Tsiporah

Famous People Named Tzipora

T

Tzipi Livni

Politician

1958

Israeli politician who served as Foreign Minister and led the Kadima party, one of Israel's most prominent female leader...

Israeli politician who served as Foreign Minister and led the Kadima party, one of Israel's most prominent female leaders

Z

Zipporah (biblical figure)

Religious

Wife of Moses in the Hebrew Bible, daughter of the Midianite priest Jethro, celebrated for her courage and decisive acti...

Wife of Moses in the Hebrew Bible, daughter of the Midianite priest Jethro, celebrated for her courage and decisive action

Quick Facts

Gender
Girl
Syllables
3
Popularity Rank
#2,982
Total SSA Count
55
Cultural Origins
Jewish Israeli Hebrew
Pronunciation
Hard
Formality
Moderate
Cross-Cultural Ease
Low

Alternative Spellings

Common Nicknames

Tzipi Zipi Zippy

Pairs Well With

Tzipora Miriam Tzipora Rachel Tzipora Sarah Tzipora Leah Tzipora Rivka Tzipora Devorah

Sibling Names

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Frequently Asked Questions About Tzipora

What does the name Tzipora mean?
"bird, little bird" (from Hebrew). "female bird" (from Biblical Hebrew). Tzipora (also spelled Zipporah) comes from the Hebrew word 'tzippor,' meaning bird. In the Hebrew Bible, Zipporah is the daughter of Jethro (the Midianite priest) and the wife of Moses. She is a strong, decisive figure — it is she who circumcises her son to save Moses's life during their journey to Egypt, an act of remarkable courage and faith.
What is the origin of the name Tzipora?
Tzipora has Hebrew, Biblical Hebrew, Jewish, and Israeli origins. In Hebrew, it means "bird, little bird". In Biblical Hebrew, it means "female bird".
Is Tzipora a boy or girl name?
Tzipora is primarily used as a girl name.
How popular is the name Tzipora?
Tzipora is currently ranked #2982 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Tzipora?
Common nicknames for Tzipora include Tzipi, Zipi, and Zippy.
What are good middle names for Tzipora?
Popular middle name pairings include Tzipora Miriam, Tzipora Rachel, Tzipora Sarah, Tzipora Leah, Tzipora Rivka, and Tzipora Devorah.
What are good sibling names for Tzipora?
Names that pair well with Tzipora as siblings include Miriam, Devorah, Avigail, Moshe, Binyamin, and Shimon.
How many syllables does Tzipora have?
Tzipora has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and rhythmic.
Is Tzipora a common or rare name?
Tzipora is an uncommon name, ranked #2982 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.

About the Name Tzipora

Tzipora is a girl name with Jewish, Israeli, and Hebrew origins . The name means "bird, little bird" in Hebrew .

Tzipora is currently ranked #2,982 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

The name Tzipora has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and memorable.

Common nicknames for Tzipora include Tzipi, Zipi, and Zippy. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.

Alternative spellings of Tzipora include Tziporah . Each spelling variation gives the name a slightly different character while preserving its sound and meaning.

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