All about the name

Joretta

Female

« Joretta is a unique American given name created by Jennifer Holiday for her daughter, with potential meanings tied to "Joy" or "Jo" combined with other elements. »

#7140 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Joretta is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It was created by the famous American actress and singer, Jennifer Holiday, for her daughter who was born in the late 1980s. The name Joretta has gained popularity since then, particularly in African-American communities. The meaning of Joretta is not explicitly known as it was invented by Jennifer Holiday herself. However, some people believe that it may be a combination of "Joy" and "Ettie," which could suggest that the name signifies happiness or joyfulness. Others interpret it as a blend of "Jo" (short for Joseph or Josephine) and "etta" (a common ending in many names), giving it a more personal and familial significance. There is no historical figure named Joretta, nor any significant events associated with this name. It is purely a modern creation and has not been recorded as an official name in any language or culture beyond its origin in the United States. Despite its lack of historical context, the name Joretta has become increasingly popular due to its unique sound and association with the talented Jennifer Holiday. Today, it is considered a distinctive and creative choice for parents looking for a memorable name for their daughter.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Joretta since 1880

Total births
1,033
Total since 1880
Peak year
1931
194 births
in 1972
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years