Gene

This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Eugénios (Εὐγένῐος),” composed of two elements: “eû ‎(εὖ)” (well) plus “gen- ‎(γεν-) gígnomai ‎(γίγνομαι)” (to come into being, to be born, to become). In turn, the name means “well-born, well come.” The name was not very common in Western Europe during the middle ages, and its use was intensified later thanks to the fame of Prince Eugene of Savoy. Prince Eugene of Savoy was one of the most successful military commanders in modern European history, rising to the highest state offices at the Imperial court in Vienna. Born in Paris, Eugene grew up around the French court of King Louis XIV. Blessed Eugenia Smet (1825–1871) founded the Holy Souls’ Helpers’ Society in 1856. Her feast day is 7 February. Pope Eugenius I († 657), also known as Eugene I, was Pope from 10 August 654 to his death in 657 and was originally from Rome.