Meaning, origin, history
Jeanette is a feminine given name of French origin and meaning "God is merciful". It is a variant spelling of the French name Jeanne, which itself is derived from the Hebrew name Johanna, meaning "God is gracious" or "God's grace".
The name Jeanette has been in use since at least the Middle Ages in France. It was borne by several historical figures, including Jeanette d'Arville (1485-1520), a French noblewoman who was known for her beauty and wit, and Jeanette MacDonald (1903-1965), an American singer and actress who gained fame in the 1930s.
The name Jeanette has also been popular among writers. It is the title character of the novel "Jeanette" by French author Marcel Pagnol, published in 1942. Additionally, it inspired the stage musical "Jeanette," which premiered on Broadway in 2017 and featured a score by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Overall, Jeanette is a classic feminine given name that has been used for centuries and has a significant historical presence in France and beyond. Its meaning, "God is merciful", reflects its religious origins and adds to its timeless appeal.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jeanette since 1880
Total births
163,304
Total since 1880
Peak year
1939
2,893 births
in 2023
62
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-13%
↘
vs previous 5 years