Jan is a diminutive form of the name Janine or a variant of the name Johannes. While primarily recognized in Dutch and German-speaking countries, it has cross-cultural origins including Slavic regions. The name Jan carries connotations of grace and divinity according to its meaning. It is predominan
Cultural significance
Jan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Netherlands-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god is gracious.
Peak popularity
Reached #131 in 1954 — currently #2116 in the US.
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Related Reading
Netherlands-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Rising — up 39 spots — currently #2116 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#2116 · Top 1.6%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#2116
69
▲ up 39 · +1% births
2022
#2155
68
▲ up 106 · +10% births
2021
#2261
62
▲ up 12824 · +1140% births
2020
#15085
5
▼ down 3206 · -37% births
2015
#11879
8
▲ up 5197 · +60% births
2010
#17076
5
▼ down 6906 · -50% births
2005
#10170
10
▼ down 3938 · -41% births
2000
#6232
17
▼ down 2343 · -37% births
1995
#3889
27
▼ down 1314 · -41% births
1990
#2575
46
▼ down 1163 · -49% births
1985
#1412
90
▼ down 570 · -51% births
1980
#842
185
▼ down 233 · -29% births
1975
#609
261
▼ down 167 · -48% births
1970
#442
498
▼ down 157 · -47% births
1965
#285
937
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Jan
1955Rank #138
2,769
#3427
↘Falling
1915 - 202325 years
The story of Jan
Jan entered American naming records in 1911 and has been in use for over 113 years. A total of 76,578 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2621 in 1915 to #2116 in 2023. Jan is used for both genders: 71% female and 29% male.
Jan means "God is gracious" — a name rooted in Netherlands tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Jan?
Jan is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Jan have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Jan?
Jan originates from Netherlands tradition. Netherlands names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Jan?
Jan is a one-syllable name pronounced JH AE1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Jan sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Jan flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Jan ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Jan
For a sister
Jan & Dorien♡
Jan & Marieke♡
Jan & Tine♡
Jan & Camiel♡
For a brother
Jan & Paal♡
Jan & Derk♡
Jan & Robeert♡
Jan & Gerritt♡
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