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Origin and meaning of the name Janis

What is the origin of the name Janis?

The name Janis is a feminine form of the name John, which is of Hebrew origin meaning "God is gracious." It gained popularity in English-speaking countries in the 20th century, particularly after the rise of American singer Janis Joplin in the 1960s.

Learn more about the origin of the name Janis

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Janis

The name Janis is a variant of the name Janice, which is a feminine form of the name Jan, itself a diminutive of the name Jane. Jane is ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanana, meaning "Yahweh is gracious." Janis is a popular name in English-speaking countries and has been used since the 20th century. It gained widespread popularity in the United States in the 1960s, likely due to the influence of the famous singer Janis Joplin. People with the name Janis are often described as creative, independent, and free-spirited individuals who value authenticity and uniqueness. The name Janis has a strong and confident sound, making it a great choice for parents looking for a modern and stylish name for their daughter.

Character traits associated with the name Janis

People with the name Janis are typically known to be confident, independent, and determined individuals. They have a strong sense of self and are not easily swayed by others' opinions. Janis is a natural leader and is not afraid to take charge in any situation. They are intelligent, practical, and have a knack for problem-solving. Janis is also known for their creativity and artistic abilities, often expressing themselves through various forms of art. They have a magnetic personality that draws others to them and are always the life of the party. Janis is passionate, loyal, and trustworthy, making them great friends and partners. Overall, those with the name Janis are seen as dynamic, charismatic, and capable individuals.

Popularity of the name Janis

The popularity of the first name Janis has fluctuated over the years. In the United States, Janis was most popular in the 1950s and 1960s, likely due to the rise of famous figure Janis Joplin, a prominent rock singer during that time period. However, as time has passed, the name Janis has seen a decline in popularity and is now considered to be a more unique and uncommon name choice. Despite this, Janis continues to hold sentimental value for many individuals who appreciate its originality and historical significance. In recent years, the name Janis has seen a resurgence in some European countries, such as Germany and Latvia, where it is more commonly used. Overall, the popularity of the name Janis may vary depending on the region and cultural influences, but it remains a timeless and classic choice for those looking for a distinctive and memorable name.

Famous people with the name Janis

Janis Joplin was a prominent American singer-songwriter known for her powerful and soulful voice, as well as her unique style which blended rock, blues, and psychedelic music. She rose to fame in the late 1960s as the frontwoman of the band Big Brother and the Holding Company, before launching a successful solo career. Joplin's hits include "Piece of My Heart," "Me and Bobby McGee," and "Ball and Chain." Her raw and emotional performances made her one of the most iconic and influential female rock musicians of her time. Additionally, Janis Ian is an American singer-songwriter who achieved fame in the 1960s and 1970s with hits like "Society's Child" and "At Seventeen." She is known for her poignant lyrics and powerful storytelling through music, earning her multiple Grammy Awards throughout her career.

Variations of the name Janis

Variations of the first name Janis include Janice, Janne, Janetta, Janika, Janina, Jancis, and Janisca. Janice is the most common variant and is often used as a feminine given name in English-speaking countries. Janne is a Scandinavian variation of Janis, while Janetta is a more unique and elaborate version. Janika and Janina are popular in Eastern European countries and have a softer sound. Jancis is a less common variation that has a playful and whimsical ring to it. Janisca is a more exotic variation that adds a touch of mystery to the name. Overall, the name Janis has a timeless and classic appeal with various variations that cater to different cultural and linguistic preferences.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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