Jean

The name 'Jean' is a unisex given name that has its origin in French. It is derived from the masculine name 'Jean', which is the French variation of the English name 'John', and from the feminine name 'Jeanne'. 'Jean' is pronounced as "zhahn" in French and is a popular name in French-speaking countries.

As a masculine name, 'Jean' gained popularity in the Middle Ages and is commonly associated with the biblical figure St. John the Baptist. The name gradually spread throughout Europe and became especially popular in English-speaking countries in the 17th century. It has since been adopted by various cultures around the world.

In the English-speaking world, 'Jean' is widely used as both a masculine and feminine name. As a masculine name, it was particularly popular in Scotland, where it was often used as a variant of the name 'Ian'. In the United States, the name gained prominence in the early 20th century and peaked in popularity during the 1930s. Notable male bearers of the name include the famous fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier and the French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre.

As a feminine name, 'Jean' became popular in the mid-20th century. It was often used as a short form of the name 'Jeanne' or as a standalone name. Notable female bearers of the name include the American actress Jean Harlow and the British novelist Jean Rhys.

Overall, the name 'Jean' carries a rich history and has been embraced by different cultures. Its versatility as a unisex name has contributed to its enduring popularity.