Zona is a feminine given name of Greek origin, meaning "girdle" or "belt" (from Greek zōnē). The name was popularized in the United States by the novelist and poet Zona Gale (1874–1938), who won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1921 for her work Miss Lulu Bett. Despite its association with a notable literary figure, the name has remained relatively uncommon. The Greek word zōnē referred to a belt or sash worn around the waist, often symbolizing readiness or preparation. In anatomy, the term is used for zones or bands, such as the zona pellucida in biology. However, the name's modern currency owes almost entirely to Zona Gale. Born in Portage, Wisconsin, Gale wrote regionalist novels and stories set in the Midwest, and was a prominent figure in the Progressive era. Her success gave the name a brief vogue in the early 20th century. Cultural Context Zona appears in the film Meet John Doe (1941) as the name of a character played by Barbara Stanwyck. Outside of its use as a given name, Zona is also the common name for the red-tailed silverside (Bedotia geayi), a freshwater fish endemic to Madagascar. In Spanish-speaking countries, zona simply means "zone" and is not typically used as a personal name. Related Names Greek names related to zōnē include Zonovan (a modern coined name) and the mythological Zone. However, no direct diminutives or variants are widespread. Meaning: "girdle, belt" Origin: Greek Gender: Feminine Usage: Rare; mainly English-speaking world Notable Bearer: Zona Gale (1874–1938), American writer