Zohra is a feminine given name used in Arabic and Urdu, functioning as an alternate transcription of the Urdu زہرہ or Arabic زهرة, both originally from Zuhra 1 and Zuhra 2. The name ultimately derives from the root زهر (zahara) meaning "to shine," and is semantically linked to the planet Venus, known in Arabic as al-Zuhara ("the bright one"). Etymology and Cultural Significance The name Zohra traces its roots to the Persian Zohreh, which means "Venus (planet)" and was borrowed from the Arabic al-Zuhara. In Arabic, zuhra directly denotes the planet Venus, a celestial body associated with beauty, love, and brilliance in many cultures—tied to the root's concept of shining or radiance. In the Islamic world, Venus is referenced in Arabic poetry and thought; while the name does not appear in explicitly religious contexts, its connection to light and heavenly bodies bestows a positive symbolic meaning. The popularity of Zohra spans several linguistic regions reflecting the spread of Arabic and Persian cultural influences. Notable Bearers Many notable women carry the name Zohra across fields such as literature, activism, performing arts, and politics in the Islamic world and diaspora communities. Zohra Drif (born 1934), Algerian nationalist and lawyer Zohra Segal (1912–2014), Indian actress known for roles in both Hindi and English films Zohra L. (Zohra Lampert, born 1937), American actress Zohra Aghazadeh (born 1986), Iranian social activist and poet Zohra Rahem, Afghan film director and advocate for women's rights Distribution and Variants Zohra is common in Arabic-speaking countries, Iran, Pakistan, India (among Muslim communities), as well as Swahili and Turkic cultures though adapted spellings. Regional forms include: Zohreh (Persian) Zuhura (Swahili) Zukhra (Uzbek) Zöhrä (Tatar) Zuxra (Uzbek, alternate romanization) Key Facts Meaning: "Venus (planet), radiance, brilliance (lit. to shine)” Origin: Arabic/Urdu (ultimately Persian via Arabic) Type: Feminine given name Usage regions: Arab world, Iran, South Asia, East Africa, Central Asia