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Origin and meaning of the name Janna

What is the origin of the name Janna?

Janna is a female given name that has origins in multiple cultures. It is derived from the Hebrew name "Yehonatan," meaning "God has given" or "given by God." In Greek mythology, Janna is an alternate spelling for Iania, one of the many names attributed to Artemis, the goddess of hunting, wilderness, and childbirth. The name also appears in Arabic as "Yanah," meaning "grace" or "beauty." Its popularity has been widespread across Europe, particularly in Northern European countries like Finland, Estonia, Russia, and Germany where it is a common first name.

Learn more about the origin of the name Janna

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Janna

The name Janna is of Hebrew origin and is a variant of the biblical name Hanah, which means "grace" or "favor." In Hebrew literature, Hannah is a woman who prays for a son and later dedicates him to God's service. As a female given name, Janna is popular across various cultures, with different variations such as Johana, Yana, and Janne. The name has Germanic roots as well, where it means "God is gracious." It gained popularity in the Western world during the Middle Ages and has remained a common name since then, with a resurgence in usage over the last century. Janna is known for its soft and elegant sound, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with both historical significance and modern charm.

Character traits associated with the name Janna

The name Janna is often associated with individuals who possess a strong sense of determination and ambition. These individuals are known for their assertive nature, as they are not afraid to voice their opinions or pursue their goals with tenacity. Jannas are also highly intelligent, demonstrating a keen ability to analyze complex situations and make thoughtful decisions. They have a natural curiosity that drives them to constantly learn and grow, both personally and professionally. Emotional intelligence is another key trait, as they tend to be empathetic and understanding, fostering strong relationships with those around them. Jannas are also known for their adaptability, demonstrating the ability to adjust to new environments and challenges gracefully. Lastly, Jannas are often independent thinkers, preferring to rely on their own judgment rather than blindly following others. Overall, a Janna is an individual with drive, intelligence, emotional depth, adaptability, and independence.

Popularity of the name Janna

The name Janna is a popular choice for girls in various regions worldwide. In the United States, according to data from the Social Security Administration, Janna peaked in popularity in the 1960s and '70s, ranking among the top 200 names for newborn girls during those decades. Today, it remains a relatively common name, although its usage has slightly declined in recent years. In other parts of the world, such as Scandinavia and the Middle East, Janna is also well-liked. The name has multiple origins, including Hebrew (Yocheved) and Arabic (Jannat), which adds to its global appeal. Despite variations in popularity across regions and time periods, Janna remains a beloved and enduring name among parents seeking a strong, feminine choice for their daughter.

Famous people with the name Janna

Janna has been represented by several prominent figures across various fields. In the realm of science, Janna Friedman is renowned for her work in mathematical logic and computer science, making significant contributions to the field of type theory. In the world of entertainment, Janna Fyvolent, a Canadian screenwriter, has gained recognition for her work on popular animated series like "Steven Universe." In literature, Janna Malamet is a Canadian author known for her novels such as "The Secret of Goose Lane" and "The House with Chicken Legs." Lastly, Janna Ahrus, also known as Yanna Ahrus, is an American comic book artist, best recognized for her work on the webcomic "Gunnerkrigg Court." These individuals showcase the versatility and influence of the name Janna across multiple disciplines.

Variations of the name Janna

The given name Janna has various forms and variants across different languages and cultures. In English, it is often spelled as Janna, Janna, or Yanna. In Finnish, it is pronounced as "Yhana" and can also be spelled as Hanne or Hanna. In German, the name is commonly written as Johanna or Hanni. In Swedish, it is primarily spelled as Johanna or Hannar. The Hebrew form of Janna is Yehonatan (for males) but there is no direct female equivalent. In Arabic, it translates to "grace" and can be written as Yanah, Yana, or Janah. These are a few examples of the name's variations globally.

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 : 14 June 2025

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