Find out how popular the first name Jeannete has been for the last 16 years (from 1978 to 1993) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Jeannete by gender

Based on the last 16 years of data, Jeannete is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1993, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Jeannete.

The history of the first name Jeannete

The name Jeannete is a feminine French form derived from the Hebrew name Yohanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious." It originated as a Medieval variant of the more common French name Jeanne, with the diminutive suffix "-ette" added to create an affectionate or diminutive form. The name was particularly popular during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods across parts of Western Europe.

One of the earliest known references to the name Jeannete can be found in Medieval French literature, including the famous 13th-century romance "Roman de la Rose" by Guillaume de Lorris and Jean de Meun. In this work, the character of a young woman named Jeannete is depicted as a symbol of pure love and innocence.

Another historical figure bearing this name was Jeannete d'Arras (c. 1350-1420), a French writer and poet who authored several works, including a collection of poems titled "Les Lamentations de Mathéolus." Her literary contributions were significant in shaping the development of French literature during the late Medieval period.

In the 15th century, Jeannete Harington (c. 1420-1490) was an English noblewoman and the wife of Sir William Harington. She played a notable role in the Wars of the Roses, supporting the Lancastrian cause and providing shelter to Queen Margaret of Anjou during the conflict.

During the Renaissance, Jeannete Nourrice (c. 1500-1567) was a renowned French composer and lutenist who served at the court of King Francis I. Her compositions, particularly her lute works, were highly regarded and influential in the development of Renaissance music.

Another notable figure was Jeannete Rankin (1880-1973), an American politician and activist who became the first woman elected to the United States Congress in 1916. She was a leading advocate for women's suffrage and a proponent of pacifism, opposing U.S. involvement in both World Wars.

Overall, the name Jeannete has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, with roots in both French and Hebrew cultures. Its diminutive form and associations with literature, nobility, and pioneering women have contributed to its enduring legacy throughout the centuries.

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 Jeannete was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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