Joan
Joan is a unisex name of Hebrew origin meaning “God is gracious”, pronounced JOHN. It ranked #987 in the United States in 2025, given to 232 babies, and peaked at #619 in 1935. Common nicknames: Joanie, Jo.
How popular is Joan in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Joan mean, and where does it come from?
Joan is the medieval English feminine of John — Hebrew Yochanan, "God is gracious" — and for centuries it was the ordinary English woman's name, until Jane and Jean took over. It belongs to the nineteen-year-old who led the French army at Orléans and was burned at Rouen. In Catalan, confusingly to English ears, Joan is a man's name, the Catalan John: Joan Miró, Joan Manuel Serrat. The American girls' name peaked in the 1930s and is now rising again after sixty years away.
How is Joan used around the world?
Joan is used in 5 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeUnisex name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Joan?
Famous People Named Joan
- Joan of Arc — French military leader and saint
- Joan Didion — American writer and essayist
- Joan Miró — Catalan painter and sculptor
Similar Names to Joan
If you like Joan, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Joan
Looking for names that pair well with Joan? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Joan mean?
Joan is a unisex name of Hebrew origin meaning "God is gracious." Joan is the medieval English feminine of John — Hebrew Yochanan, "God is gracious" — and for centuries it was the ordinary English woman's name, until Jane and Jean took over. It belongs to the nineteen-year-old who led the French army at Orléans and was burned at Rouen.
How do you pronounce Joan?
Joan is pronounced JOHN. Common variations include Joanne, Johanna, Jane.
Is Joan a unisex name?
Yes, Joan is traditionally a unisex name. Popular nicknames include Joanie, Jo.