Janet
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Janet
Janet, which has 5 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of English origin.
Meaning of Janet
God's gracious gift
Janet is a feminine given name of English origin, derived from the French version of Jane which means "God is gracious".
| Meaning | God's gracious gift |
| Origin | English |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #953 in 2011 Declining Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1930s) |
Background & History of The Name Janet
Janet is a feminine given name that originated from the English language. It is considered a diminutive form of the name Jane, which itself is derived from the Hebrew name Yochana, meaning "gracious" or "God is gracious." The name Janet gained popularity during the Middle Ages in England and Scotland, and it has been widely used ever since. Janet is a versatile name that has been adopted by various cultures around the world. In some cases, it is spelled differently, such as Janette or Jannett, but the pronunciation remains the same. The name Janet has seen variations in different languages, including French (Jeanette), German (Johne), Swedish (Jannet), and Italian (Gianetta).
Janet has been a popular choice for parents due to its simplicity and timeless appeal. It has stood the test of time, remaining consistently popular over the years. Many notable figures throughout history have borne the name Janet. One example is Janet Jackson, an American singer, songwriter, and actress, known for her impressive career and contribution to the music industry. Another notable Janet is Janet Leigh, an American actress who rose to fame in the 1950s and '60s and starred in iconic films such as Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho."
The name Janet is often associated with qualities like grace, kindness, and generosity. People with the name Janet are known to be confident, independent, and caring individuals. As a result, they often possess excellent leadership skills and tend to be successful in their endeavors. They have a strong sense of loyalty and are reliable friends and family members. Janet's popularity in various cultures and its enduring charm have made it a favored choice for parents seeking a meaningful and elegant name for their daughters.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Janet over the years.
Similar English Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Janet.
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