Meaning, origin, history
Jenna is a feminine given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew name Jehannah, which means "God is gracious" or "graced by God." The name Jenna has gained popularity in English-speaking countries over the past few decades.
In literature, one notable character named Jenna appears in Philip Pullman's trilogy His Dark Materials. In this series, Jenna is a young girl who plays a significant role in the story's plot. This literary character may have contributed to the increased familiarity and usage of the name Jenna in recent years.
The name Jenna has been consistently popular in the United States since the late 1980s, reaching its peak popularity during the mid-1990s when it ranked among the top 50 most popular girl names. While its popularity has slightly decreased over time, Jenna remains a widely recognized and used feminine given name.
Some variations of the name Jenna include Jahna, Janna, and Genna. These variants offer parents additional options if they are considering this name for their child but prefer a less common spelling or pronunciation.
Overall, Jenna is a beautiful and meaningful Hebrew name that has gained significant recognition and popularity in recent decades, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its biblical origins and positive meaning make it an attractive choice for parents looking for a name with strong roots and a positive connotation.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jenna since 1880
Total births
256
Total since 1880
Peak year
2004
27 births
in 2006
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years