Jolene is a unique and captivating feminine given name of American origin. It is believed to have been created by the famous singer-songwriter Dolly Parton for her song "Jolene" released in 1973. The song tells the story of a woman named Jolene who tries to persuade another woman not to take her lover away from her.
The meaning and history of the name Jolene are somewhat uncertain as it is not derived from any known source. Some theories suggest that Dolly Parton may have been inspired by a real person named Jolene, while others believe she invented the name for the sake of the song's narrative. Regardless of its origin, Jolene has become increasingly popular as a given name in the United States and beyond since the release of the iconic song.
One interesting aspect about the name Jolene is that it can be spelled in various ways, including Jolen, Jouline, and Juleen, among others. Despite these variations, the most common spelling remains Jolene. In terms of its meaning, some sources suggest that Jolene may be derived from the English word "jolity," which means cheerful or lively. However, this connection is not widely accepted, and the true origin and meaning of the name Jolene remain a mystery.
Today, Jolene continues to be recognized as a unique and distinctive feminine given name, often associated with Dolly Parton's hit song. Parents who choose this name for their daughters may do so for its musical connection or simply because they appreciate its uncommon sound and style. Whatever the reason, Jolene is sure to make a memorable impression wherever it is heard.
The name Jolene experienced a notable increase in popularity over the years, peaking between 1974 and 2014 with over 998 births per year at its highest point in 1974. However, since then, there has been a significant decline, with only 549 births recorded in 2023. Overall, Jolene has been given to 35,295 individuals between the years 1918 and 2023.