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Janis

Girl name · 68 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Janis: 68 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 11 births in 1978.

Of Latvian and Slavic origin, Janis is a form of John, ultimately from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning "God is gracious." The name is particularly strong in Latvia, where it is the most common male name and is celebrated on the summer solstice festival of Jāņi. Famous bearers include the legendary American singer Janis Joplin, known for her raw, powerful voice and 1960s counterculture anthems, and Latvian basketball star Jānis Krūmiņš, a key player in the Soviet Union's Olympic success. The name also shares its root with the Scottish place name St John's Town of Dalry, though the Scottish form is typically Ian. A notable variant is the feminine Janice, which emerged in the 20th century.