Find out how popular the first name Janis has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Janis by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Janis is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 99% of people named Janis being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 11 female babies and 6 male babies born with the name Janis.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 6 baby boys were named Janis in 2023, despite it being a predominantly female name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Janis

The name Janis has its roots in the ancient Greek language, derived from the word "Ioannes," meaning "Yahweh is gracious." This name gained popularity during the early days of Christianity and was widely used across various regions of the Mediterranean and Europe.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Janis can be traced back to the 4th century AD, when it was mentioned in the writings of the Greek philosopher and theologian John Chrysostom. The name also appeared in various ecclesiastical records and texts from the Byzantine period, solidifying its association with the Christian faith.

During the Middle Ages, the name Janis spread across Europe, particularly in regions with strong Hellenic cultural influences, such as Italy and parts of the Balkans. It was commonly used by both clergy and laypeople, reflecting the enduring popularity of names with religious connotations.

As the centuries passed, the name Janis underwent various linguistic transformations, adapting to the phonetic patterns of different languages. In some regions, it evolved into forms like Janis, Jannis, or Yiannis, while in others, it took on variations like Giovanni or Juan.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Janis. One of the earliest recorded figures was Janis Laskaris (c. 1250-1284), a prominent Byzantine nobleman and military leader who played a crucial role in the defense of Constantinople during the late 13th century.

In the realm of arts and literature, Janis Joplin (1943-1970) was a legendary American singer-songwriter and one of the most influential voices of the 1960s counterculture movement. Her raw, powerful vocals and unique stage presence made her an iconic figure in the history of rock music.

Another renowned bearer of the name was Janis Paige (born 1922), an American actress and singer who enjoyed a successful career in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema. She is best remembered for her roles in musicals and comedies, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

In the world of sports, Janis Shunga (born 1985) is a Latvian professional basketball player who has represented his country in numerous international competitions, including the EuroBasket and the Summer Olympics.

Lastly, Janis Ian (born 1951) is an American singer-songwriter and author, best known for her hit single "At Seventeen," which earned her a Grammy Award. Her poetic and introspective lyrics have resonated with audiences across generations.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Janis was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Janis, please contact us.

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