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Johann Unisex

Popularity: #833 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationyo-HAHN / /joˈhan/

German; Hebrew

Meaning

German: God is gracious; Hebrew: God is gracious

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Johann has its roots in the Hebrew name Yochanan, which means "Yahweh is gracious." This name was adapted into Greek as Ioannes and subsequently into Latin as Johannes. The transition into Old High German produced the form Johan, which later evolved into Johann in modern German. The name entered the English language through various channels, including the Norman Conquest, where it was introduced as John, a variant that became widely used in English-speaking countries.

Historically, the name Johann has been borne by numerous significant figures, particularly in the Christian tradition. One of the most notable is John the Baptist, a key biblical figure who is recognized for his role in the New Testament. The name also appears in various forms in the Bible, including the Apostle John, who is traditionally credited with writing the Gospel of John and the Book of Revelation. The name's prominence was further solidified during the Middle Ages, particularly through the influence of saints, such as Saint John of Bridlington and Saint John of Capistrano, who contributed to its enduring legacy.

Culturally, Johann has been associated with various symbolic meanings, often reflecting themes of grace and divine favor. The name has been embraced in numerous artistic and literary contexts, with notable bearers including Johann Sebastian Bach, a pivotal figure in classical music, and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, a central figure in German literature. The name's historical and cultural significance has ensured its continued resonance across different eras, making it a name that embodies a rich tapestry of heritage and tradition.

Trend Summary

Johann has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S., with a notable presence in historical contexts.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Johannes
  • Jochen

International Variants

  • Giovanni (Italian)
  • Juan (Spanish)
  • Jean (French)
  • Johann (Dutch)

Famous people named Johann

Johann Sebastian Bach is a composer and musician best known for The Well-Tempered Clavier, Brandenburg Concertos, and Mass in B minor.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a writer and statesman best known for Faust, The Sorrows of Young Werther, and Wilhelm Meister's Apprenticeship.

Johann Strauss II is a composer best known for The Blue Danube, Tales from the Vienna Woods, and The Gypsy Baron.

Johann Gottlieb Fichte is a philosopher best known for his works on German idealism and the Foundations of the Science of Knowledge.

Johann Heinrich Pestalozzi is an educator best known for his educational reforms and the book How Gertrude Teaches Her Children.

Johann Ludwig Tieck is a writer and translator best known for his fairy tales and his role in the Romantic movement in Germany.

Johann Gottfried Herder is a philosopher and literary critic best known for his ideas on cultural nationalism and the concept of Volksgeist.

Johann Georg Hamann is a philosopher and writer best known for his critiques of Enlightenment rationalism and his influence on German Romanticism.

Johann David Wyss is an author best known for The Swiss Family Robinson.

Johann Peter Eckermann is a writer best known for his conversations with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, published in Conversations with Goethe.

Fictional characters named Johann

Johann is a fictional character from the manga and anime series Attack on Titan. He is a member of the Survey Corps who plays a significant role in the fight against the Titans.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Johann was first seen in the United States in 1912. Johann has ranked as high as #1130 nationally, which occurred in 2010, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Johann has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Johann (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 11
24%
CA 11
24%
FL 7
16%
MN 6
13%
GA 5
11%
NY 5
11%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19125
19156
19175
19185
19205
19425
19476
19485
19495
19515
19526
19538
19548
19558
19567
195716
195817
195913
19609
196110
196211
196316
196417
196519
196615
196717
196821
196926
197026
197126
197228
197337
197441
197536
197637
197736
197846
197948
198048
198130
198247
198335
198442
198549
198640
198740
198844
198930
199038
199146
199235
199334
199445
199551
199644
199753
199864
199962
200073
200189
2002113
2003115
2004125
2005127
2006135
2007146
2008157
2009177
2010222
2011210
2012215
2013164
2014130
2015138
2016168
2017106
2018126
201991
202092
202176
202287
202377
202491