All about the name

Genovieve

Female

« Geneviève is a French feminine given name derived from Germanic elements meaning "woman warrior," popularized by Saint Geneviève who defended Paris against Attila the Hun. »

#65538 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Geneviève is a feminine given name of French origin, derived from the Germanic elements "genan" meaning "to give birth" or "to generate," and "hwaebne" meaning "battle." Therefore, Geneviève's meaning can be interpreted as "woman warrior" or "warlike woman." The name Geneviève has a rich history in France. It was borne by Saint Geneviève (c. 422 – c. 512), the patron saint of Paris. According to legend, she played a crucial role in protecting the city from Attila the Hun's army during the siege of Paris in 451 AD. Her bravery and devotion inspired the people of Paris, and after her death, she was venerated as a saint. The name Geneviève has been popular in France for centuries, particularly among Catholic families due to its association with Saint Geneviève. In the 20th century, the name gained international recognition thanks to French actress Geneviève Bujold, who won critical acclaim for her performances in films like "Anne of the Thousand Days" (1969) and "Coma" (1978). Today, Geneviève remains a popular choice among parents looking for a distinctive yet timeless name for their daughters. Its unique sound and rich historical significance continue to captivate people around the world. Despite its origins in France, Geneviève has been adopted by various cultures and can be found in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United States. In summary, Gen

In numbers

Popularity of the name Genovieve since 1880

Total births
5
Total since 1880
Peak year
1991
5 births
in 1991
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years