Janette is a feminine given name of French origin. It is a diminutive form of the name Jane, which itself comes from the Hebrew name Jehhananah meaning "God is gracious." Therefore, Janette can be interpreted to mean "God is gracious" as well.
The name Janette has been used in France and other French-speaking countries for many centuries. It gained popularity during the Middle Ages when it was often given to girls born into noble families. The name also appears frequently in French literature of that time period, further contributing to its popularity.
In English-speaking countries, Janette began to be used more commonly during the Victorian era in the 19th century. It has since been a popular choice for parents looking for a unique yet feminine name with a touch of vintage charm.
Some notable figures bearing the name Janette include Canadian actress Janette Oke, known for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder in the television series "Little House on the Prairie," and French painter Janette Louise (1854-1936), who was famous for her portraits and landscapes.
The name Janette saw its popularity peak in the late 1950s to early 1960s, with over 600 births per year recorded from 1953 to 1958. However, it declined significantly thereafter, with fewer than 200 births per year since 1974. As of 2023, the name Janette has fallen out of favor, with only 41 births recorded that year.