Janette Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

About Janette

Janette is a feminine name derived from Jane, which ultimately comes from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning "God is gracious." This French diminutive form adds refinement and elegance to the simpler Jane. Janette enjoyed modest popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1940s-1960s, often as an alternative to the more common Janet. The name combines classic origins with a softly feminine sound. While less commonly given to babies today, it retains a timeless quality that avoids feeling dated. Janette offers the perfect balance between familiarity and distinctiveness, recognizable without being overused, and carries the graceful, meaningful heritage of its root name.

Pronounced jah-NET.

As of October 2026, Janette ranked #5150 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #310 in 1953.

AI-written. Reviewed by Sophie Kihm

Sources: US popularity data is from the Social Security Administration. Meanings and origins are from Nameberry's name references.

Editorial policy

Popularity & trends

US popularity — history

US rank, lower is more popular · SSA data 2014–2025

Actual · SSA

20142025

18802025

Data table

Year	US rank	Births	Per million
2014	#2,861	60	33.6
2015	#3,152	53	29.7
2016	#3,079	54	30.5
2017	#3,409	46	26.6
2018	#3,582	43	25.3
2019	#4,103	35	20.9
2020	#4,809	27	16.7
2021	#3,835	39	23.8
2022	#4,320	33	20.1
2023	#3,728	41	25.6
2024	#4,804	28	17.3
2025	—	0	0