Find out how popular the first name Gennessy has been for the last 1 years (from 2006 to 2006) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Gennessy by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Gennessy is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2006, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Gennessy.

The history of the first name Gennessy

The name Gennessy is a relatively uncommon given name with an intriguing history. Its origins can be traced back to the Gaelic language, which was spoken in Ireland and parts of Scotland. The name is derived from the Gaelic word "genas," meaning "seed" or "offspring." This suggests that the name may have been bestowed upon children as a symbol of fertility and new beginnings.

In ancient Irish mythology, there are references to figures bearing similar names, such as Geanann, a warrior princess renowned for her bravery and skill in battle. While the direct connection is unconfirmed, it is possible that the name Gennessy evolved from these mythological roots, carrying with it connotations of strength and resilience.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Gennessy can be found in medieval Irish records from the 12th and 13th centuries. During this period, the name was predominantly used by families in the western regions of Ireland, particularly in counties like Galway and Mayo.

One of the earliest known figures to bear the name Gennessy was Gennessy O'Flaherty, a chieftain from Galway who lived in the late 13th century. He was renowned for his leadership during a period of conflict between rival clans in the region.

In the 16th century, a woman named Gennessy Ní Chonchúir gained recognition as a skilled poet and storyteller. Her works, though largely lost to time, were said to capture the essence of Irish folklore and oral traditions.

During the 18th century, Gennessy O'Donnell, born in 1712, was a prominent figure in the Irish rebellion against British rule. He was a skilled military strategist and played a crucial role in several battles before ultimately being captured and executed in 1746.

In more recent history, Gennessy Fitzpatrick (1892-1967) was an Irish-American writer and journalist known for her insightful commentary on social and political issues of her time. Her memoir, "A Life Lived Twice," provided a poignant account of her experiences as an immigrant in the United States.

While the name Gennessy remains relatively uncommon, its rich historical significance and connections to Irish culture and mythology make it a unique and captivating choice for those seeking a name with deep roots and a sense of resilience.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Gennessy was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Gennessy, please contact us.

Reference this page

We spend a lot of resources downloading, cleaning, merging, and formatting the data that is shown on the site.

If you found the data or information on this page useful in your research, please use the tool below to properly cite or reference Name Census as the source. We appreciate your support!