Jeannine is a feminine given name of French origin. It is derived from the French name Jeanne, which itself comes from the Hebrew name "Yochana," meaning "God is gracious." Therefore, Jeannine can be interpreted as a variant of Jeanne or a diminutive form of Jean.
The name Jeannine has been in use for centuries, with its popularity waxing and waning over time. It was particularly common in France during the mid-20th century but has since become less frequent. Despite its decreased usage, Jeannine remains a classic French name that retains a certain charm and nostalgia.
Jeannine has not been associated with any specific historical figures or notable individuals, nor is it directly linked to particular events or celebrations. However, as a derivative of Jeanne, it shares some of the same cultural significance. For instance, Saint Joan of Arc, one of France's most famous heroines, is known by her given name Jeanne.
In literature and arts, Jeannine has made appearances in various works throughout history. One notable example is "Jeannine," a short story written by French author Guy de Maupassant. The name also appears as a character in some novels and plays, further contributing to its cultural presence.
While Jeannine may not be as widely used today compared to other French names like Marie or Sophie, it remains an attractive option for parents looking for a distinctive yet classic name with deep roots in French history and culture. Its meaning, "God is gracious," adds another layer of depth and warmth to this charming name.
The name Jeannine had a significant rise in popularity from the 1920s to the 1960s, with over 400 births per year occurring consistently between 1952 and 1967. The peak was reached in 1960 with 637 births. However, since the late 1960s, there has been a steady decline in its popularity, with fewer than 50 births per year recorded from 1980 onwards. In recent years, Jeannine has become quite rare, with fewer than 10 births per year occurring annually between 2008 and 2023. Overall, there have been a total of 24,049 births recorded for the name Jeannine since 1914.