All about the name

Johan

Male

« Johan is a Scandinavian name derived from Old Norse John meaning "God is gracious." It's popular in Sweden, Norway, and other Scandinavian countries, with notable bearers including Dutch lawyer Johan van Oldenbarnevelt and German composer Johann Sebastian Bach. Today, Johan is globally embraced despite its historical roots. »

#565 last year

Meaning, origin, history

Johan is a name of Scandinavian origin, derived from the Old Norse name John, which means "God is gracious." It is a popular name in Sweden and Norway, as well as other Scandinavian countries. The name Johan has a long history dating back to ancient times. It was used by several notable figures throughout history, such as Johan van Oldenbarnevelt, a Dutch lawyer and statesman who played a significant role in the Eighty Years' War against Spain. Another famous Johan is Johan Sebastian Bach, the renowned German composer of the Baroque period. Today, Johan remains a popular choice for parents looking to give their child a name with strong Scandinavian roots and a rich historical background. Despite its origins, the name Johan has been embraced by people from all over the world, making it a truly global name.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Johan since 1880

Total births
13,573
Total since 1880
Peak year
2016
659 births
in 2023
514
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+5%
vs previous 5 years