Gene
Gene began as a short form of Eugene, from the Greek "Eugenios" — meaning "well-born." Gene Kelly (1912-1996), the actor and dancer known for "Singin' in the Rain" (1952) and "An American in Paris" (1951), is the most famous mid-century bearer. Gene Wilder (1933-2016), the actor who played Willy Wonka in "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" (1971), gave the name a comic charge. Gene was a top-100 American name from 1930 to 1965, peaking at #60 in 1937. Gene is a male name of Greek origin that means "Well-born (short form of Eugene)". Brisk, vintage, and a little charming. The name sounds friendly. Genes tend to be artistic. US peaked #60 in 1937. Now outside top 1000. Well-known people named Gene include Gene Kelly (actor/dancer), Gene Wilder (actor), Gene (short form of Eugene). Common variations and related forms of Gene include Eugene (full form), Geno (variant), Genie (variant).