John

The Meaning & Origin of the Name John

Gender Boy
Origin Hebrew
Letters 4
Syllables 1
Pronunciation John - jahn

John, which has 4 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of John

God is gracious

John is a masculine given name derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious". It is a popular name throughout the English-speaking world and is also a common name in many Christian countries.

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(2.7/5 from 44 votes)
Meaning God is gracious
Origin Hebrew
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #21 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Popular (Top 50)
Era Vintage (1900s)

Background & History of The Name John

The name 'John' is derived from the Hebrew name 'Yohanan', which means "Graced by God" or "God is gracious". It is a name of great historical significance and religious importance in various cultures and traditions. John is one of the most common masculine given names in the English-speaking world, and it has been widely used for centuries. The name has diverse variations and equivalents in different languages, such as Johann in German, Jean in French, and Ivan in Russian.

In the Bible, John holds a prominent role as the name of several important figures. The most notable biblical figure is John the Baptist, who played a crucial role in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. John the Baptist is recognized for his baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan, thus becoming renowned as the precursor of Christianity. This biblical association has contributed to the popularity and significance of the name in Christian communities.

Throughout history, numerous influential individuals have borne the name 'John'. One of the most renowned figures is John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, who is remembered for his leadership during the Cuban Missile Crisis and his efforts to promote civil rights. Additionally, John Lennon, a key member of The Beatles and an iconic musician, made a significant impact on the world through his music and activism.

John is a name that is widely appreciated for its simplicity, timelessness, and enduring popularity. Its popularity can be attributed to the fact that it is easily recognizable, easy to spell and pronounce, and it transcends cultural boundaries. Due to its widespread usage and historical significance, the name 'John' has become deeply embedded in various aspects of society, including literature, art, and popular culture. Overall, the name 'John' continues to be an enduring symbol of strength, grace, and historical legacy.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of John over the years.

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