Janet is a feminine given name of English origin, derived from the Latin word "Johannes," which means "God is gracious." It is a diminutive form of the name Jane, which itself is a derivative of John. Janet has been in use as an independent name since the Middle Ages but gained popularity during the Victorian era.
The name Janet has been associated with several notable individuals throughout history. One such figure is Janet Taylor (1759-1846), a British astronomer and mathematician who published works on subjects like navigation and geography. Another notable Janet is Janet Frame (1924-2004), a New Zealand author known for her autobiographical novels and short stories.
In literature, Janet appears as a character in Sir Walter Scott's novel "The Heart of Midlothian," while in Scottish folklore, she is featured in the ballad "Fair Janet" as the young woman who encounters the Fairy King. These literary appearances have contributed to the name's cultural significance and appeal.
Today, Janet remains a popular choice for parents looking for a classic yet distinctive name for their daughters. It has consistently ranked among the top 1000 most popular girl names in the United States since the mid-20th century. Despite its traditional origins, the name Janet continues to be relevant and appealing due to its historical significance and the achievements of notable individuals who have borne this name.
The name Janet experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a notable peak during World War II. From 1880 to around 1947, it was among the top names, reaching its zenith in 1947 with 15,236 births. However, from the mid-1940s onwards, there's a marked decline until it reaches just 96 births in 2023, suggesting Janet is now quite rare as a newborn girl's name.