US Popularity:3519
Origin:British
Other Origin(s):Hebrew
Meaning:God is gracious; God's gracious gift
Janet is a girl's name of British origin meaning "God is gracious" or "God's gracious gift." It is a particularly popular name in Scotland and is thought to have originated as a pet name for the more prevalent girl's name, Jane. A feminine form of John, Jane comes from the Hebrew name Yochanan, so Janet has roots in Judaism, too. In more recent times and with a legacy that will outlive us all, the name Janet came into the spotlight as a result of Hollywood siren Janet Leigh and popstar royalty, Janet Jackson.

Famous People Named Janet

Wondering who else shares this name? Check out these well known people who made this baby name famous.
  • Janet Jackson
    Singer

Janet Name Popularity Data

The Bump Ranking

Overall:Janet is currently #1285 on The Bump
Girl:Janet is currently #592 on The Bump Girl Names

U.S. Births

Overall:Janet is currently #3519 in U.S. births
Girl:Janet is currently #1277 in U.S. births

Yearly Ranking Change:

Year:
2022
#3519
in 2022
+ 219
from 2021
In comparison to the previous year's data
Sources
  • 100,000+ Baby Names by Bruce Lansky, pg. 164

  • Behind the Name, Janet, January 2022

  • Name Doctor, Janet

Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial process.
Not sure you have the perfect name? Search to add more baby names to your My Favorites list.