Jane
God is gracious — a girl name of English origin
Popularity of Jane in the United States
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Meaning & Origin of Jane
Jane is an English form of the Old French name Jehanne, which itself derives from the Latin Iohannes, ultimately from the Hebrew "Yochanan" meaning "God is gracious." The name has been used in England since the Middle Ages and was borne by several notable historical figures, including Lady Jane Grey, the ill-fated nine-day queen of England. Jane Austen's literary legacy has permanently associated the name with wit, intelligence, and understated elegance. Though less common than it once was as a first name, Jane remains a beloved classic.
Jane Around the World
Jane is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 16+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
Nicknames for Jane
Famous People Named Jane
- Jane Austen — English novelist
- Jane Goodall — British primatologist
- Jane Fonda — American actress and activist
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Sibling Name Ideas for Jane
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Jane mean?
Jane is a girl name of English origin meaning "God is gracious." Jane is an English form of the Old French name Jehanne, which itself derives from the Latin Iohannes, ultimately from the Hebrew "Yochanan" meaning "God is gracious." The name has been used in England since the Middle Ages and was borne by several notable historical figures, including Lady Jane Grey, the ill-fated nine-day queen of England.
How do you pronounce Jane?
Jane is pronounced JAYN. Common variations include Jayne, Jana, Jeanne.
Is Jane a girl name?
Yes, Jane is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Janie, Jay, JJ.
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