What does Gena mean and where does it come from?
Gena is used in various cultures but is widely recognized as a diminutive of Eugenia. It gained popularity in America especially in the mid-20th century. Famous individuals named Gena include Gena Rowlands, an acclaimed actress known for her performances in film and theater. The name carries connota
Cultural significance
Gena has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #419 in 1968 — currently #16064 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Gena?
Gena works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Gena Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Gena Rose
Floral · soft ending
Gena Claire
French influence · crisp
Gena Jane
Literary · strong
Gena Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Gena right now?
Falling — down 2738 spots — currently #16064 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2021 | #16064 | 5 | ▼ down 2738 · -17% births |
| 2020 | #13326 | 6 | ▼ down 5332 · -57% births |
| 2015 | #7994 | 14 | ▼ down 483 · -12% births |
| 2010 | #7511 | 16 | ▼ down 3024 · -47% births |
| 2005 | #4487 | 30 | ▼ down 2208 · -56% births |
| 2000 | #2279 | 68 | ▼ down 61 · +13% births |
| 1995 | #2218 | 60 | ▼ down 763 · -44% births |
| 1990 | #1455 | 107 | ▼ down 542 · -38% births |
| 1985 | #913 | 173 | ▼ down 128 · -17% births |
| 1980 | #785 | 209 | ▼ down 289 · -42% births |
| 1975 | #496 | 361 | stable · -10% births |
| 1970 | #496 | 401 | ▲ up 34 · +23% births |
| 1965 | #530 | 325 | ▲ up 84 · +22% births |
| 1960 | #614 | 267 | ▲ up 140 · +69% births |
| 1955 | #754 | 158 | — |
The story of Gena
Gena has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. A total of 12,811 babies have received this name. Once ranked #529 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #16064 in 2021.
Names that peaked alongside Gena in 1968:
Gena by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 102 | |
| 1890s | 143 | |
| 1900s | 117 | |
| 1910s | 219 | |
| 1920s | 289 | |
| 1930s | 210 | |
| 1940s | 349 | |
| 1950s | 1,233 | |
| 1960s ★ | 3,967 | |
| 1970s | 3,216 | |
| 1980s | 1,710 | |
| 1990s | 765 | |
| 2000s | 368 | |
| 2010s | 117 | |
| 2020s | 6 | |
What are good nicknames for Gena?
What names sound and feel like Gena?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gena also consider these
Common questions about the name Gena
What does the name Gena mean?
Gena means "English" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Gena?
Gena is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Gena?
Gena originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Gena a common or rare name?
Gena is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What personality traits are associated with the name Gena?
Studies on name perception suggest that Gena is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.