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John

God is gracious

Origin

Hebrew

Used in

en

Origin and meaning of John

John is the English form of the Hebrew Yohanan, 'God is gracious, merciful', reaching English through the Greek Ioannes and Latin Iohannes. It is perhaps the most widespread Christian name in history, common to every European culture thanks to Saint John the Baptist and the Evangelist. In English it is a timeless classic; in Italian Giovanni, in German Johann, in French Jean, in Spanish Juan. It conveys kindness, faith and genuine simplicity.

Variants around the world

How John sounds in other languages.

GiovanniJohannJeanJuanIvan

Famous people

  • John Locke— philosopher
  • John Milton— poet
  • John Dalton— scientist

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Frequently asked questions

What does the name John mean?

The name John means God is gracious.

What is the origin of the name John?

Origin of John: Hebrew.

What are the international variants of the name John?

International variants of John: Giovanni, Johann, Jean, Juan, and Ivan.