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feminine names beginning with j

  1. Jody

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Joan and Judith

    • Description:

      One of the cute and bouncy nicknames so popular in the 1960s and 70s, but that hasn't made a comeback in the way Eames chairs and miniskirts have. Think of it as one of the original but now old-school unisex names starting with J, ala Jamie and Jessie.
  2. Jan

    • Origin:

      Feminine variation of John, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"

    • Description:

      Jan, not short for Janet or Janice but standing on its own, ranked in the Top 200 throughout the 1950s but dropped off the Top 1000 in the 1980s and now is a truly extinct name, given to fewer than five baby girls in the US each year.
  3. Jess

    • Origin:

      Short form of Jessica, Hebrew

    • Meaning:

      "behold or wealthy"

    • Description:

      Many variations of Jessica, including Jessie and Jessa, are used on their own, but Jess is an exception, given to only a handful of baby girls last year. But Jess is certainly the name that many Jessicas are called.
  4. Jenifer

    • Description:

      Jenifer is a feminine name, representing an alternative spelling of the more common Jennifer. Both derive from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar, meaning 'white wave' or 'fair spirit.' This variation with a single 'n' maintains the same pronunciation while offering a slightly distinctive written form. Jennifer became extraordinarily popular in English-speaking countries during the 1970s, largely due to the character Jennifer Cavalleri in the novel and film 'Love Story.' The Jenifer spelling, while less common, allows for connection to this familiar name while providing a subtle differentiation. Though Jennifer has declined from its peak popularity, both spellings continue to be used, with Jenifer offering a more uncommon option that still carries the name's friendly, approachable associations.
  5. Juanita

    • Origin:

      Spanish, feminine variation of Juan

    • Description:

      Pervasive in all Spanish-speaking cultures, Juanita, like Juana, has not emigrated.
  6. Judi

    • Description:

      Judi is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive form of Judith, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'woman from Judea' or 'praised.' This shorter variation gained particular popularity in the mid-20th century as a more modern alternative to the traditional Judith. The name received significant visibility through acclaimed British actress Dame Judi Dench, whose distinguished career helped maintain the name's association with elegance and talent. Judi peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s, reflecting the era's preference for friendly, accessible shortened names. Though less common among newborns today, Judi maintains an image of warmth and approachability. The name's straightforward pronunciation and spelling, combined with its rich historical roots, make it simultaneously unpretentious and meaningful.
  7. Janette

    • Description:

      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.

  8. Joana

    • Origin:

      Portuguese, Catalan

    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"

    • Description:

      A variant of Johanna.
  9. Jacintha

    • Description:

      Jacintha is a feminine name with Greek origins, derived from the flower name hyacinth (Hyakinthos). In Greek mythology, Hyakinthos was a beautiful youth beloved by Apollo, transformed into the flower after his death. The feminine form Jacintha emerged in multiple European languages, gaining particular popularity in Spanish, Portuguese, and Dutch-speaking regions. The name carries associations with beauty, delicacy, and spring blossoming. Throughout history, Jacintha has maintained consistent though modest usage, never becoming overly common. The name possesses an elegant, classical quality with its flowing sounds and mythological connections. Jacintha offers a sophisticated alternative to more familiar flower names while maintaining accessible pronunciation and international recognition across multiple language traditions.
  10. Janis

    • Origin:

      Variation of Jane

    • Description:

      Last moment of glory was in the Janis Joplin sixties.
  11. Jem

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Jemma or Jemima

    • Meaning:

      "gem; dove"

    • Description:

      There was an eighties cartoon queen named Jem (& The Holograms), and this is as likely to be a full name as a short form – deriving from Jemma, Jemima or Jameela.
  12. Jacklyn

    • Description:

      Jacklyn is a feminine name that serves as a variant spelling of Jacqueline, the feminine form of Jacques, which is the French equivalent of James. Ultimately derived from Hebrew origins meaning "may God protect," Jacklyn emerged as a popular alternative spelling particularly in the United States during the mid-20th century. This variation offers a more phonetic and straightforward spelling while maintaining the name's elegant sound. Jacklyn peaked in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s, reflecting the trend toward giving traditionally masculine names feminine forms. The name projects strength and sophistication while the 'y' spelling adds a touch of individuality. Notable namesakes include actress Jacklyn Zeman, known for her long-running role on the soap opera General Hospital.
  13. Jenn

    • Description:

      Jenn is primarily a feminine name that originated as a shortened form of Jennifer, which derives from the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar, meaning 'white wave' or 'fair spirit.' Jenn became popular as a standalone name in the late 20th century as part of the trend toward shorter, more casual names. It peaked in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s when Jennifer was one of the most common girls' names in the United States. Jenn offers a friendly, approachable quality while maintaining the essence of its longer form. While its usage has declined since its peak, it remains recognized and appreciated for its simplicity and connection to the beloved classic Jennifer.
  14. Jasmyn

    • Description:

      Jasmyn is a feminine name representing a modern variant spelling of Jasmine, derived from the Persian word 'yasmin' referring to the fragrant flowering plant. This contemporary spelling emerged in the late 20th century as parents sought unique variations of traditional names. The 'y' spelling gives the classic name a fresh, distinctive quality while maintaining its elegant sound and botanical associations. Jasmyn peaked in popularity in the United States during the early 2000s, appealing to parents who appreciated the familiar name but wanted something slightly different. The name evokes images of the delicate white jasmine flower known for its sweet scent, carrying associations of beauty, grace, and femininity. Its Persian origins also give it a multicultural appeal that transcends specific cultural boundaries.

  15. Jeanna

    • Description:

      Jeanna is a feminine name that serves as a variant of Jean, Jeanne, or Joanna, all ultimately derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' This softened variation offers a slightly more contemporary feel while maintaining connections to its traditional roots. Popular during the mid-20th century, Jeanna peaked in usage in the United States during the 1970s and early 1980s. The name carries a gentle, feminine quality while still maintaining substance and history. While less common today than some of its variants like Jennifer or Joanna, Jeanna appeals to parents seeking a name that is recognizable but not overused. Its smooth pronunciation and classic heritage make it a subtle choice that works well across different age groups.
  16. Jordin

    • Description:

      Jordin is a contemporary feminine name that emerged as a modern variant of Jordan. Originally a place name referring to the Jordan River in the Middle East, it evolved into a surname before becoming a given name. The distinctive spelling with an 'i' gained popularity in the early 2000s, particularly after American singer Jordin Sparks won American Idol in 2007. This spelling variation gives the name a more feminine appearance while maintaining its strong sound. Jordin represents the trend of adapting traditionally masculine or unisex names for girls through alternative spellings. The name balances modern appeal with biblical connections, making it versatile across different cultural and religious backgrounds.
  17. Jesy
    • Jorden