The name Janet originated from the French variation Jeanette, which is the feminine form of the male name Jean, derived from the Hebrew name Yohanan meaning "Graced by God" or "Yahweh is gracious". The name gained popularity during the Middle Ages in France and eventually spread across Europe.

Janet is thought to have its roots in ancient Hebrew and Biblical texts, with the name Yohanan appearing in various forms throughout the Old Testament. One of the earliest recorded uses of the name in its modern form can be found in the Domesday Book, a manuscript compiled in 1086 by order of William the Conqueror, which mentions a landowner named Janneta.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Janet. One of the earliest was Janet Beaufort (1399-1472), a Scottish princess who played a significant role in the Wars of the Roses. Another influential figure was Janet Erskine (1508-1572), a Scottish noblewoman and religious reformer who was a confidante of Mary, Queen of Scots.

In the realm of literature, Janet Lewis (1899-1998) was an American poet, novelist, and short story writer who received numerous accolades, including the Frost Medal from the Poetry Society of America. The name also has a place in the world of science, with Janet Taylor Lisle (1936-2001) being a prominent American virologist known for her contributions to the study of viruses and their role in cancer.

In the 20th century, Janet Flanner (1892-1978) was an American writer and journalist best known for her work as the Paris correspondent for The New Yorker magazine under the pen name "Genêt". Her vivid descriptions of Parisian life and culture during the interwar period and World War II are considered literary masterpieces.

While these are just a few examples, the name Janet has been carried by countless individuals throughout history, each leaving their unique mark on the world in various fields and disciplines.