What does Genji mean and where does it come from?
Genji is a traditional Japanese given name often associated with the famous character from 'The Tale of Genji,' which is considered the world's first novel. The name itself can mean 'source of good' or 'the second son' in traditional Japanese naming conventions. Genji is widely recognized in Japanes
Cultural significance
Genji has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japanese-speaking communities, where it reflects values of japanese.
Peak popularity
Reached #13818 in 2018 — currently #12984 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japanese-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Genji?
Genji works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Genji Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Genji Rose
Floral · soft ending
Genji Mae
Sweet · timeless
Genji Claire
French influence · crisp
Genji Jane
Literary · strong
Genji Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Genji right now?
Falling — down 226 spots — currently #12984 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2022 | #12984 | 5 | ▼ down 226 |
| 2021 | #12758 | 5 | — |
The story of Genji
Genji is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2018. With 5 total births recorded, Genji remains relatively uncommon.
Names that peaked alongside Genji in 2018:
💎Genji has only 5 total recorded births since 2018 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Genji?
What names sound and feel like Genji?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Genji also consider these
Common questions about the name Genji
What does the name Genji mean?
Genji means "Japanese" — a name rooted in Japanese 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 Genji?
Genji is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy 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 Genji?
Genji originates from Japanese tradition. Japanese 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 Genji?
Genji is a two-syllable name pronounced JH EH1 N JH IY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Genji a common or rare name?
Genji is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.