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Janine Girl

Popularity: #930 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationjah-NEEN / /dʒəˈniːn/

French; Hebrew

Meaning

French: God is gracious; Hebrew: He has been gracious

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Janine is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning "God is gracious." This name evolved through several linguistic stages, beginning with the Hebrew form, which was translated into Greek as Ioannis. The Latin form, Iohannes, emerged from the Greek, which later influenced the Old French variant, Jehan, before evolving into the modern English John. Janine itself is a diminutive or feminine form of the name Jean, which is the French equivalent of John, and it became popular in the 20th century as a distinct name in its own right.

Historically, the name John has been significant in various cultures, with notable biblical figures such as John the Baptist and the Apostle John contributing to its prominence. The name has been borne by numerous saints and monarchs throughout history, including King John of England in the 13th century. The widespread use of John and its derivatives can be traced back to the early Christian era, with translations of the Bible, such as the King James Version in the early 17th century, further solidifying its place in Western culture.

Culturally, Janine carries connotations of grace and favor, reflecting its roots in the meaning of its Hebrew origin. The name has been embraced in various cultures, particularly in French-speaking regions, where it is often associated with elegance and femininity. The diminutive form Jan, which can also be derived from Jean, shares a similar cultural resonance, emphasizing the name's enduring appeal. Overall, Janine encapsulates a rich historical lineage and a blend of cultural significance that has allowed it to persist through the centuries.

Trend Summary

Janine experienced a peak in popularity in the mid-20th century but has since declined in usage.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Jan
  • Janie

International Variants

  • Giannina (Italian)
  • Janina (Polish)
  • Yannina (Greek)

Famous people named Janine

Janine Turner is an actress best known for Northern Exposure, Cliffhanger, and The Cowboy Way.

Janine Benyus is a biologist best known for her work in biomimicry and authoring Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature.

Janine Jansen is a violinist best known for her performances and recordings of classical music.

Fictional characters named Janine

Janine Melnitz is a fictional character from the film franchise Ghostbusters. She is the receptionist for the Ghostbusters team, providing support and comic relief throughout the series.

Janine is a fictional character from the animated series The Real Ghostbusters. She is a key member of the Ghostbusters team, often assisting in their ghost-catching adventures.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Janine was first seen in the United States in 1914. Janine has ranked as high as #427 nationally, which occurred in 1960, and has been most popular in New York, California, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Janine has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Janine (2022)

StateBirthsShare
CA 8
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19147
19155
19175
19185
19236
19245
19267
192810
192928
193028
193129
193235
193327
193442
193531
193636
193730
193858
193955
194045
194136
194256
194364
194458
194593
1946188
1947293
1948277
1949258
1950327
1951421
1952564
1953694
1954813
1955745
1956578
1957581
1958459
1959774
19601,381
19611,287
19621,289
19631,135
19641,240
19651,357
19661,238
19671,055
1968883
1969894
19701,044
1971830
1972594
1973584
1974541
1975491
1976495
1977480
1978484
1979524
1980507
1981496
1982560
1983541
1984507
1985426
1986376
1987345
1988366
1989328
1990337
1991283
1992288
1993250
1994193
1995178
1996171
1997138
1998124
1999122
2000105
2001101
200295
200394
2004102
200589
200654
200770
200840
200962
201045
201134
201258
201346
201429
201550
201641
201738
201854
201927
202024
202131
202224
202320
202420