What does Genesis mean and where does it come from?
The name Genesis comes from the Greek word 'γενέσις' (genesis), meaning 'birth' or 'origin.' It gained popularity in the late 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. The name is often associated with new beginnings and fresh starts, and it is also recognized from the biblical book
Cultural significance
Genesis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #55 in 2013 — currently #66 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Genesis?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Genesis?
Genesis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Genesis Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Genesis Claire
One syllable · timeless choice
Genesis Zoey
One syllable · vintage charm
Genesis Maeve
One syllable · timeless choice
Genesis Jade
One syllable · vintage charm
Genesis Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Genesis right now?
Declining — down 11 spots — currently #66 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #66 | 3,527 | ▼ down 11 · -8% births |
| 2024 | #55 | 3,849 | ▲ up 2 · +5% births |
| 2023 | #57 | 3,661 | ▲ up 8 · +6% births |
| 2022 | #65 | 3,448 | ▲ up 10 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #75 | 3,344 | ▼ down 13 · -8% births |
| 2020 | #62 | 3,654 | ▲ up 3 · -12% births |
| 2015 | #65 | 4,160 | ▲ up 24 · +26% births |
| 2010 | #89 | 3,303 | ▲ up 66 · +49% births |
| 2005 | #155 | 2,224 | ▲ up 92 · +71% births |
| 2000 | #247 | 1,303 | ▲ up 86 · +64% births |
| 1995 | #333 | 796 | ▲ up 256 · +104% births |
| 1990 | #589 | 391 | ▲ up 1097 · +467% births |
| 1985 | #1686 | 69 | ▲ up 375 · +35% births |
| 1980 | #2061 | 51 | ▲ up 289 · +46% births |
| 1975 | #2350 | 35 | — |
The story of Genesis
Genesis is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1964. Its peak popularity was #55 in 2013. A total of 78,268 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5001 in 1970 to #57 in 2023. Genesis is used for both genders: 97% female and 3% male.
Names that peaked alongside Genesis in 2013:
Genesis by decade
Genesis peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 12 | |
| 1970s | 353 | |
| 1980s | 1,288 | |
| 1990s | 9,094 | |
| 2000s | 22,065 | |
| 2010s ★ | 41,527 | |
| 2020s | 11,637 | |
What are good nicknames for Genesis?
What names sound and feel like Genesis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Genesis also consider these
Common questions about the name Genesis
What does the name Genesis mean?
Genesis means "English" — a name rooted in English 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 Genesis?
Genesis is currently ranked #57 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Genesis?
Genesis originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Genesis?
Genesis is a three-syllable name pronounced JEN-us-us. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Genesis?
Genesis pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar English heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.