Zendaya Full Name and Surname: A Detailed Look
When you hear the name Zendaya, you likely think of the award‑winning actress, singer, and fashion icon who has taken Hollywood by storm. Yet many fans wonder: what is Zendaya’s full name? This article breaks down her legal name, the origins of her surname, and provides a concise biography that highlights how she built her brand from a young age.
Legal Name: Zendaya Maree Stoermer‑Cole
Zendaya was born Zendaya Maree Störmer‑Cole on September 1, 1996, in Oakland, California. The name “Zendaya” is of African origin, meaning “to give thanks.” Her middle name, Maree, honors her mother’s side of the family, while “Störmer‑Cole” is a hyphenated surname that reflects both of her parents’ lineages.
Understanding the Surname “Störmer‑Cole”
The surname Störmer‑Cole combines two distinct family names:
- Störmer – Zendaya’s father, Kazembe “Kaz” Störmer, is of African American descent. The name “Störmer” is a variation of the German word for “storm,” a nod to his ancestors who immigrated to the United States in the early 20th century.
- Cole – Zendaya’s mother, Claire Störmer‑Cole, is of German‑American heritage. The Cole name traces back to English roots, historically meaning “coal miner” or “dweller by the coal pits.”
By hyphenating the two surnames, Zendaya’s parents emphasized the importance of both family histories, a tradition that has influenced Zendaya’s own approach to identity and representation.
Why She Uses Only “Zendaya” Professionally
From the start of her career, Zendaya chose to go by her first name alone. This decision mirrors the single‑name branding strategy used by iconic figures such as
