Alternatives to Genesis

Angel is one of those names that has a very different trajectory for girls and boys. As a female name, it was most popular in the US from the 1970s until the turn of this century, almost breaking into the Top 100 at its peak in 2001 but then beginning a long slide down the list.

Blessed and Blessing are two word and virtue names getting more attention, especially among religious parents.

Chosen is officially a baby name thanks to Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, who chose (can't resist) the word as the name of his newborn son. While it may inspire bad puns, Chosen is actually a pretty good word name: It's got the two-syllable, n-ending sound that is so fashionable for names, plus a positive, affirming meaning. Chosen is rising on the girls' side too now, given to 74 baby girls in 2022.

A word name that's appealing when applied to a person boogying or doing ballet; a different story in the context of Santa's reindeer.

Could be a sister to Trinity, Genesis, or Heaven.

A whimsical and serene feeling word name, bestowed to reflect the joy and perfection parents might find in their children and the ambitions they have for them. Once a fantastical and celebrity-only feeling option, Dream came into popular usage after Rob Kardashian and Blac Chyna chose it for their daughter in 2016.

Heavily perfumed word name that peaked a few years ago.

Might have a shot as a name, à la Genesis and Destiny, if it weren't for yet another perfume connection.

Faith is one of the most straightforward of the virtue names popularized by the Puritans in the seventeenth century, many parents still choosing it as an indicator of their religious conviction. Faith peaked in 2002 at Number 48.

Astrological sign with enough rhythm to make a plausible astral name.

Commonly used in Japan, and so much more distinguished than Jen.

An unconventional way to Rosie or Rosa, borne by Generosa of Scillium, a martyr and saint from the 2nd century AD.

Full-hearted new virtue choice, though five syllables is a lot to handle.