Origin and Meaning of John

Yahweh is gracious

Origin: Hebrew - Derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan (יוֹחָנָן), meaning 'Yahweh has been gracious'. The name has also been influenced by Latin as 'Johannes'.

• John is one of the most common and enduring names in the Western world, prevalent in various cultures and languages.
• The name has been used throughout history, appearing in both religious texts and secular history, particularly within Christianity where John the Baptist and John the Apostle are significant figures.
• Notable bearers of the name include John Locke, the philosopher; John Lennon, the musician; and numerous kings, saints, and political figures.
• In the English-speaking world, the name John was especially popular in the Middle Ages and has remained a common choice, often ranking within the top 10 for boys in the 20th century.
• Variations of the name include Jonathan, Johan, Giovanni (Italian), and Juan (Spanish), showcasing its cross-cultural appeal.