The name Jean is a Scottish female name. This name is not currently in the top 100 Scottish names for girls (Scottish Government Figures, 2023). Jean is a great name for a baby girl as it is easy to pronounce yet unique enough to make the child stand out.
Meaning & Origin
The name Jean is a beloved Scottish name with a rich history and deep meaning. It is the Scottish form of the name Jane, which itself is a feminine version of John. The name Jean has its origins in the Hebrew name Yochanan, which means “God is gracious”. This name traveled through various languages, becoming Johanna in Latin, Jehanne in Old French, and finally Jean in Scottish.
Naming a child Jean will let the child know they are special. This name is Hebrew in origin. Jean is also often used in hyphenated names such as Billy-Jean and Mary-Jean.
Popularity
In Scotland, the name Jean has been popular for centuries. It was especially common in the early to mid-20th century, often ranking among the top names for girls.
While its popularity has waned in recent years and was not in the top 100 baby names, in 2022, it remains a classic and timeless name.
Famous People Called Jean
There are many well-known people named Jean. Jean Alexander is a British actress. The actress Jean Harlow was one of the first sex symbols. She acted in many movies in the 1930s and is still well-respected in Hollywood today. Another famous Jean is Jean Grey. She is a comic book character who is one of the original members of the X-Men. This Jean was born with superpowers that include telekinesis. Jean Butler was a well-known dancer and actress who is known for her starring role in Riverdance.
Why choose the name?
Despite its decline in popularity, the name Jean continues to be cherished for its elegance and historical significance. It remains a name that carries a sense of grace and tradition, making it a timeless choice for parents looking for a meaningful name for their child.
Useful Resources
- Our comprehensive list of Scottish girls’ names.