Origin and Meaning of Jillene

Meaning & Origin

Variation of Jill, often interpreted as 'youthful' or 'downy' like a young person or a soft feather.

Origin: English - Jillene is derived from the name Jill, which is a diminutive form of the name Jennifer. The name Jennifer comes from the Cornish name Gwenhwyfar, meaning 'white enchantress' or 'fair one.'

Interesting Facts

  • Jillene is a relatively modern name and is mostly used in English-speaking countries, becoming popular in the latter half of the 20th century.
  • It is often used as a unique variant of more common names like Jill and Julie, appealing to parents looking for something distinctive yet familiar.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Jillene McKeown, a contemporary figure in the education and coaching sector.
  • Popularity of the name Jillene has seen fluctuations, often appearing in baby name lists sporadically, peaking in the 1980s and 1990s.
  • Related names include Jill, Julienne, and Jillian, which share a common root and similar phonetic qualities.