Ethan Hawkins

By Ethan Hawkins
Naming Trends Analyst

Updated on September 02, 2024

Neo

US Popularity Rank: 2036

Origin: African

Meaning: New; A child gifted from a divine being

Neo is a modern, ahead-of-its-time gender-neutral name. With Greek origins, this name is derived from the prefix neo or neos, meaning “new.” Often used as a prefix in medical books and the like—for example, neonate!—this name is also a wonderfully unique option for your latest addition. Most famously, this contemporary moniker is shared by the futuristic hero of the sci-fi franchise The Matrix, played by the ever-cool Keanu Reeves. And just like in the film, the name Neo (which is an anagram of ‘one’) will work perfectly for the new number one in your life. Neo is also a Setswana name often interpreted as "gift" or "present," from the verb naya. When given as a personal name, Neo represents a child gifted to parents from a divine being, making it gloriously faithful and a deep expression of gratitude for baby's long-awaited arrival.

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