Origin and Meaning of Jan

Meaning & Origin

God is gracious

Origin: Hebrew - Jan is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan (יוחנן), which means 'God is gracious'. The name is also linked to the Latin name Johannes.

Interesting Facts

  • Jan has been used in various cultures, often associated with grace and divine favor, reflecting its meaning.
  • In Dutch, Czech, and Slovak cultures, Jan is a very common male name, while in Scandinavian countries, it may be used for both genders.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Jan van Eyck, a prominent Flemish painter, and Jan Hus, a Czech theologian and reformer.
  • In the United States, Jan experienced popularity in the mid-20th century, especially during the 1940s and 1950s, commonly given to girls.
  • Variations of the name include John (English), Jean (French), and Giovanni (Italian), all of which reflect similar cultural significance.