Genesis

What does Genesis mean?

Genesis is a name drawn from the Hebrew root used for beginnings and origins, familiar to many through its association with the opening book of the Bible. As a given name it carries the idea of a start or a fresh chapter, a sense of something newly formed or brought into being.

In tone, Genesis feels contemporary and strong while still having a softly poetic edge. It sits comfortably among word names that are chosen for their clear, evocative meanings, and it can feel both bold and hopeful. Parents who like names that suggest potential, renewal or narrative may find Genesis especially appealing.

Historical Context

The name Genesis comes into English usage directly from the Greek and Latin titles for the first book of the Bible, which itself reflects older Hebrew texts. As a word, genesis means origin or coming into being, but its use as a personal name is relatively recent, growing in popularity in the late twentieth and early twenty-first century. Its adoption follows a trend for meaningful word names and for parents drawing on religious or literary vocabulary in new ways.

Because the word appears in scripture and in common English, the name moves between religious and secular settings. Some families choose it for its Biblical association, others for the broader concept of a fresh start. Over time Genesis has been used for girls and, less commonly, for boys, reflecting the modern tendency for some word names to be unisex. The name’s straightforward sound and clear meaning have helped it travel beyond its original cultural context into international usage.

Popularity of Genesis over time

In 2025, Genesis was given to 3,527 girls in the US. Genesis has risen in usage over the last 20 years, and is now a well-used girls' name in the US.

What do parents think of Genesis?