Genevieve
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Genevieve
Genevieve is a Celtic girl name, which has 9 letters.
Genevieve is a French name derived from the Germanic name Genovefa, meaning “tribe woman” or “tribal woman”. It is also associated with the Latin phrase genu vivere, meaning “to be alive”.
Rating
Log in to save this name to your favorites.
What to Expect When You're Expecting
Buy On Amazon
The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be
Buy On Amazon
Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide
Buy On Amazon
Mayo Clinic Guide to Your Baby's First Years
Buy On Amazon
Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
Buy On AmazonThese are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Detailed Information About The Name Genevieve
The name "Genevieve" is of French origin and derives from the Latin name "Genovefa". The name gained popularity during the Middle Ages, primarily in France. Genevieve is a feminine name, typically given to girls. It is a compound name formed by combining the elements "gen", meaning "race" or "kind", and "vefa", which translates to "woman" or "wife". The name Genevieve holds historical significance as it was associated with Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris. Saint Genevieve was a popular figure in France during the 5th century and is praised for her piety, charity, and courage in saving Paris from the attacks by Attila the Hun.
In terms of popularity, Genevieve peaked in the early 20th century and then experienced a decline before regaining popularity in recent years. The name has a timeless and elegant feel, making it a popular choice among parents looking for a classic name for their daughters. Genevieve has a sophisticated sound and is often associated with intelligence and grace.
Those named Genevieve often bear nicknames like Gen, Genny, or Evie for short. As a result of its French origins, Genevieve is prevalent in French-speaking countries like France, Canada, and Belgium. However, its adoption has spread globally, making it a familiar name in many different cultures and countries. Genevieve has enjoyed literary representation in various forms, including being featured in novels, poems, and songs, further cementing its cultural significance. Overall, Genevieve is a name that encompasses a rich history, distinct charm, and an enduring appeal that has made it a favorite choice among parents worldwide.
Similar Celtic Baby Names
Search Baby Names & Meanings
Search our growing database of baby names to find just the right name for your baby or to find out what your own name means!
Celebrity Baby Names
Celebrity baby names are usually not conventional, but some of them become popular. Here is our growing list of celebrity baby names.
Celebrity Baby NamesNaming Your Baby
Picking a name is one of the most important things you will do for your child, so why not take some time to look through our collection of baby naming resources.
Naming Your Baby
Unusual Baby Names
Unique or unusual baby names are tempting when it is time to name your child; however, you should also be aware of the pitfalls that a unique name might have.
Unusual Baby NamesBiblical Baby Names
Biblical names are some of the most widely used names, and for good reason. The tradition and history behind these names makes them a great choice!
Biblical Baby NamesTypes of Baby Names
The baby name collection on this site is constantly evolving, and a good way to browse through our database is selecting the type of name you are interested in.
Types of Baby Names