Ever wonder what the names are of all generations and what their age ranges are? With so many different generations, it is easy to be confused. Additionally, there is a lot of ambiguity about when one generation starts and another one ends. To clear up all of this confusion, we’ve put together this informational guide that breaks down the names of all generations, birth years, current ages, and defining characteristics.
| Generation Name | Birth Years | Current Age |
| Generation Alpha | 2013–2025 | 0–12 |
| Generation Z | 1997–2012 | 13–28 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) | 1981–1996 | 29–44 |
| Generation X | 1965–1980 | 45–60 |
| Baby Boomers | 1946–1964 | 61–79 |
| Silent Generation | 1928–1945 | 80–97 |
| Greatest Generation | 1901–1927 | 98–124 |
| Lost Generation | 1883–1900 | 125–142 |
Generation Names and Birth Years
Gen Alpha
Birth Years: 2013–2025 (ongoing)
The first generation to be fully born in the 21st century Gen Alpha. They are growing up in a world filled with smart devices, AI assistants, and immersive digital experiences. The name “Alpha” was chosen by sociologists to start a new cycle of generational labels after Gen Z, taking inspiration from the Greek alphabet. This generation is expected to be the most educated and technologically advanced. However, there are growing concerns about Gen Alpha having too much screen-time. Many of their formative years have also been shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on schooling and social life.
Gen Z
Generation Birth Years: 1997–2012
Other Generation Names: Zoomers
Gen Z, also known as Zoomers, are true digital natives who grew up in a world with smartphones, YouTube, and social media. They are known for being highly connected, socially aware, and entrepreneurial. They strongly prefer smartphones and touchscreens over laptops and computers. There is also a trend where Gen Z is not as ambitious to get their driver’s license due to the anxiety associated with driving, the cost of cars, and the availability of rideshare platforms. The term “Zoomer” comes from taking the “Boomer” out of “Baby Boomer” and replacing the B with a Z.
Millennials
Generation Birth Years: 1981–1996
Other Generation Names: Gen Y
Millennials, also known as Generation Y, came of age during the internet explosion and were the first to grow up with social media and smartphones. The generation name “Millennial” was coined by authors William Strauss and Neil Howe because this group would come of age around the year 2000. Millennials experienced the transition into the digital world, as schools began to get computer labs and started teaching typing instead of cursive. Most millennials were still in school during world events such as the September 11 attacks and the Great Recession.
Generation X
Generation Birth Years: 1965–1980
Other Generation Names: Gen X
Generation X is often seen as independent, resourceful, and skeptical. They born between 1965 and 1980 and grew up during the rise of personal computers, video games, and cable TV. However, it is important to note that much of the technology they interacted with was not connected to the internet. They experienced world events such as the fall of the Berlin wall, as well as a golden era for music with bands such as Nirvana.
Baby Boomers
Generation Birth Years: 1946–1964
Baby Boomers were born during the post-World War II baby boom. The baby boom was a period of dramatic population growth. As soldiers returned from World War II, they came home and started families which caused a spike in births. Boomers grew up during a time of economic expansion, suburban growth, and major cultural change. They lived through the civil rights movement, women’s rights movement, and the moon landing.
The Silent Generation
Generation Birth Years: 1928–1945
The Silent Generation grew up during a time of global turmoil, including the Great Depression and World War II. They are called the silent generation because they’re perceived as being less outspoken and rebellious than other generations. That being said, the silent generation was raised to value discipline, respect for authority, and hard work.
The Greatest Generation
Generation Birth Years: 1901–1927
Other Generation Names: G.I. Generation
This generation is called “The Greatest Generation” because of their role in fighting and supporting World War II, both on the battlefield and at home. The term was popularized by General James Van Fleet who said “The men of the Eighth Army are a magnificent lot, and I have always said the greatest generation of Americans we have ever produced.” Many also contributed to post-war economic growth and technological innovation.
The Lost Generation
Generation Birth Years: 1883–1900
Other Generation Names: World War I Generation
The Lost Generation refers to those who reached adulthood around World War I and experienced the devastation of the war. They are called the Lost Generation because many people who lived through World War I felt emotionally lost, and disconnected from traditional values. Many in the Lost Generation gravitated towards arts and literature, and products great works of art later in life.