Zachris

Zachris is a masculine given name most commonly found in Sweden and among Swedish-speaking communities. It is a Scandinavian variant of Zacharias, which derives from the Hebrew name Zechariah. The meaning of Zechariah is traditionally given as “the Lord has remembered.” The form Zachris appears in Swedish records from the early modern period and persists in genealogical and historical sources.

Usage and distribution: Historically, Zachris was relatively common in Sweden, particularly among clergy, scholars, and public officials. In modern times the name is rare and generally regarded as archaic or old-fashioned, though it can still appear in family histories or as a given name chosen for cultural or familial reasons. Outside Sweden, the form may appear in Swedish-speaking communities in Finland and other parts of the Nordic world.

Variations and related names: Zacharias, Zachary, Zach, and other transliterations of the same root appear in various languages. In Swedish, Zacharias is more common today, while Zachris remains a historically attested variant.

Notable bearers: Historical records show individuals named Zachris in Sweden’s church registers, administration, and academia, especially from the 17th through 19th centuries. None has achieved widespread international fame, but the name is well documented in genealogical sources for Nordic families.

See also: Zacharias, Zachary, Zechariah.