Jean: Name Day, Name Meaning & More
Name days are significant cultural traditions in many parts of the world, offering an alternative celebration to birthdays, often linked to saints or historical figures. The name Jean, rich in history and meaning "God is gracious," possesses a mood that is both elegantly classic and traditionally sound. Its gender identity shifts dramatically depending on the region, being male in France but predominantly female in the USA. Jean also boasts a surprisingly varied calendar of name day celebrations across the globe, reflecting its widespread adoption in different forms. For example, dates dedicated to Jean include March 8th, June 24th, August 19th, October 23rd, and December 27th across various European and American locales.
Name Day: Dates by Country
Jean's name day is celebrated
on March 8 in France,
June 24 in Spain, Ukraine and the USA,
August 19 in France,
October 23 in France and
December 27 in France.
The Story Behind This Name
Jean has a complex history of usage in the United States, primarily recognized as a female name throughout the 20th century. Its peak popularity for girls occurred during the 1930s and 1940s, often used as a middle name or a short, classic first name. While the name has declined significantly in female usage since the mid-century mark, it remains associated with vintage American charm. Historically, the male form (reflecting the French pronunciation) was rare in the US, generally only seen in specific cultural enclaves or when borne by immigrants. Contemporary usage in the US is extremely low for both genders, settling into a status as a classic, though dated, feminine moniker.
Name origin and meaning
The name Jean is derived from the ancient Hebrew name *Yehohanan*, which combines elements meaning "Yahweh is gracious" or "God is merciful.” It entered European languages primarily through the Latin *Ioannes* and subsequently evolved differently across linguistic branches. Jean represents the quintessential French equivalent of names like John or Juan. This name’s longevity stems from its deep roots within religious and traditional naming conventions across the Western world. Although linguistically distinct from English forms, it carries the same foundational spiritual meaning of divine favor.
Name Identity: Gender Classification
Worldwide, the classification of Jean is highly dependent on the cultural context and location. In its native French-speaking environments, Jean is overwhelmingly a masculine name, one of the most classic and enduring choices for men. Conversely, in the English-speaking world, particularly the United States, Jean is almost exclusively understood and used as a feminine name. This discrepancy causes it to be classified technically as a truly unisex name globally, despite strong gender segregation by region. Therefore, while historically male in France, its adoption as a female name in places like the US makes its gender identity fluid depending on the continent.
The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality
Jean carries a refined and elegant mood, evoking associations with classic European sophistication. The name has a soft, yet sturdy, tone due to its brief, single syllable structure. It often projects a nostalgic, vintage personality, particularly in regions where its usage peaked decades ago. This vibe is typically perceived as traditional and honest, suggesting reliability and understated charm. Jean manages to feel both historically significant and refreshingly unembellished, offering a timeless simplicity.
Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Jean
Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.
Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name
Destiny number: 3 – The Communicator.
Keywords: Creativity, joy, social expression, charisma, inspiration.
Positive Traits: Artistic, optimistic, outgoing, charming, entertaining.
Challenges: Can be superficial, scattered, or struggle with focus and discipline.
Life Path Meaning: A life of creative expression, communication, and optimism.
Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights
First name number: 3 - The communicator.
Traits: Creative, expressive, social, optimistic.
Strengths: Charismatic, artistic, talented in communication and writing.
Challenges: Can be scattered, superficial, or struggle with discipline.
The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You
The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Jupiter - Expansion, Luck, Wisdom.
Jupiter is the planet of abundance, wisdom, and higher learning. Names ruled by Jupiter are often linked to individuals with a strong sense of optimism, generosity, and a love for adventure. These names carry a vibration of success, good fortune, and the pursuit of knowledge. People with Jupiter-ruled names often have a philosophical mindset and a natural ability to inspire others.
Name days: Name Jean
This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 France | March | 8 | Jean |
 Spain | June | 24 | Ivana, Iván, Jean, Joan, Jon, Juan, Juana |
 Ukraine | June | 24 | Bohuslav, Bohuslava, Boris, Boryslav, Boryslava, Ivan, Jean, Joan, Johanna, John, Slavka, Slavko, Yvonna |
 USA | June | 24 | Giovanna, Giovanni, Hans, Ian, Ivan, Jan, Jana, Jean, Jeanette, Jeannette, Johan, John, Johnnie, Johnny, Juan, Juana, Juanita, Sean, Shana, Shane, Shanna, Yancy |
| France | August | 19 | Jean |
| France | October | 23 | Jean, Simon |
| France | December | 27 | Fabiola, Jean |
Name days: Similar names (Jean)
Here you’ll find name days for names that are similar in spelling, pronunciation, or origin. Many cultures group related names together, even if they are not identical. If your name has a close variation, you may find relevant name day dates in this section.
| Country | Month | Day | Name days |
 Greece | January | 7 | Gianna, Giannis, Ioannis, Ivana, Jeannette, John, Prodromos |
| France | April | 7 | Clotaire, Jean-Baptiste |
 Norway | April | 21 | Jannike, Jeanette |
 Sweden | May | 29 | Jeanette, Yvonne |
| France | May | 30 | Ferdinand, Jeanne, Lorraine |
| France | June | 24 | Jean-Baptiste |
Jean A Classic Name Across Cultures
In summary, the name Jean presents a fascinating case study in linguistic and cultural adoption, maintaining an aura of classic elegance and simplicity. Its foundation lies in the ancient Hebrew concept of divine grace, ensuring its enduring spiritual relevance across centuries. While strongly associated with masculinity in French culture, its predominantly female usage in the United States highlights its truly versatile, unisex nature globally. Despite its simplicity, Jean’s wide recognition is affirmed by its numerous name day celebrations throughout the year, spanning countries like France, Spain, Ukraine, and the USA. Ultimately, Jean remains a concise, traditional name, subtly shifting its identity to fit the locale where it is cherished.
When Is Your Name Day?
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