Janae is a feminine given name with origins tracing back to the late 19th century. It is believed to be a variant or feminine form of the Hebrew name Janai, which itself derives from the biblical name Janna meaning "God is gracious" or "God has favored." The name Janae also bears similarities to the French name Janée, meaning "born in January."

The earliest recorded use of the name Janae can be found in the United States census records from the late 1800s. It is possible that the name gained popularity as a more modern and unique variation of the traditional names Jane or Janie during this time period. However, its usage remained relatively rare until the mid-20th century.

One of the earliest notable individuals with the name Janae was Janae Silas, an American actress and dancer born in 1909. She appeared in several Broadway productions and Hollywood films during the 1930s and 1940s.

Another historical figure was Janae Hodges, a British suffragette and women's rights activist born in 1892. She was a prominent figure in the Women's Social and Political Union and was arrested multiple times for her participation in protests and demonstrations.

In the realm of literature, Janae Everett was an American novelist and poet born in 1923. She is best known for her critically acclaimed novel "The Remembered Earth," which explored themes of identity, loss, and resilience.

Moving into the 20th century, Janae Gammage was an Australian athlete who competed in the 1984 and 1988 Summer Olympics as a sprinter. She won a silver medal in the 4x100m relay at the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

Lastly, Janae Bakken was a Norwegian artist and sculptor born in 1945. Her works, often featuring abstract forms and organic shapes, have been exhibited in galleries and museums throughout Scandinavia and Europe.

While these are just a few examples, the name Janae has continued to be used across various cultures and backgrounds, carrying with it a sense of grace, favor, and uniqueness.