'genius' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'genius', where the root 'gen-' meant 'to beget, give birth' (related to producing or innate nature).

'genius' changed from the Latin word 'genius' (with senses of a guardian spirit or innate disposition), passed into Old French (e.g. 'genie') and Middle English, and eventually became the modern English word 'genius'.

Initially, it meant 'a guardian spirit or tutelary deity' or 'innate disposition', but over time it evolved into its current primary meaning of 'a person with exceptional natural ability or intelligence'.