Origin and Meaning of Ioan

Meaning & Origin

God is gracious

Origin: Romanian - Ioan is the Romanian form of the name John, which originates from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious'.

Interesting Facts

  • Ioan is a traditional name in Romania and is often used for boys, reflecting a strong Christian heritage.
  • The name Ioan is frequently associated with Saint John the Baptist, a significant figure in Christianity, which influences its use especially in religious contexts.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Ioan Gruffudd, a Welsh actor of Romanian descent and famous Romanian poet Ioan Barbu.
  • The name Ioan has seen fluctuations in popularity; it is typically more common in Romania than in other countries, often ranking high among boys' names.
  • Variations of Ioan can be found across different cultures, including Ian (Scottish/English), Giovanni (Italian), and Juan (Spanish).