If you’re expecting a baby, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is choosing a name. The name you give your child will be with them for their whole life, so it’s no wonder so many parents feel overwhelmed by the task. One classic name that has stood the test of time is John, which has been popular for centuries. If you’re drawn to this name but want something a little different, there are plenty of other names out there that share its classic appeal. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of names like John – for boys, girls, and beyond.
Boy Names Like John
Let’s start by looking at some boy names that have a similar feel to John. One option is Jonathan, which is a Hebrew name that means “gift of God.” Other classic choices include James, William, and Thomas – all names that have been popular for generations. Some more unusual picks might include Johann, which is the German form of John, or Iain, which is the Scottish variation.
If you’re looking for a more modern twist on the name John, you might consider names like Jackson, which has a similar sound and is currently a popular choice for boys. Another option is Jaxon, which is a variation of Jackson and adds a unique spelling to the name. Other modern choices could include Jayden, Mason, or Liam – all names that have risen in popularity in recent years.
Girl Names Like John
Although John is more commonly associated with boys, there are also plenty of girl names that have a similar sound or vibe. One of the most straightforward options is Johanna, which is the feminine form of John in many languages. Another classic option is Jane, which has been a popular girl’s name for centuries. For something a little more unique, you might consider Jovana (which has Serbian roots), or Yana (a variation of the Russian name Ivan).
Another option for a girl’s name that sounds similar to John is Joni. This name gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, thanks to the singer Joni Mitchell. It can be a great choice for parents who want a name that is both classic and unique.
If you’re looking for a name that has a similar meaning to John, you might consider the name Grace. While it doesn’t sound like John, Grace means “favor” or “blessing,” which is similar to the meaning of John, which means “God is gracious.” Other names with similar meanings include Hannah, which means “grace” or “favor,” and Annabelle, which means “loving” or “gracious.”
Unisex Names Like John
If you’re looking for a name that works for a child of any gender, there are also plenty of unisex options to consider. Jordan is a timeless choice that has been used for both boys and girls, while Casey and Riley are more modern names that are becoming increasingly popular for both genders. Jaime and Morgan are two names that have a long history of being used for both boys and girls, as well.
Another popular unisex name is Taylor, which has been used for both boys and girls since the 1970s. Avery is another name that has gained popularity in recent years as a unisex option. Other options to consider include Cameron, Devon, and Hayden. When choosing a unisex name, it’s important to consider the meaning and origin of the name to ensure it’s a good fit for your child.
Unique Names Like John
If you’re looking for a name that is truly one-of-a-kind, there are plenty of unique names out there that share some of the classic appeal of John. Jovan is a Balkan name that means “dove,” while Yannis is the Greek version of John. Some more unusual options might include Joah or Johar, both of which have Hebrew roots.
Another unique name option that shares some similarities with John is the name Jonty. This name is of English origin and is a diminutive of the name Jonathan. It has a playful and friendly sound to it, making it a great option for parents looking for a unique yet approachable name for their child. Other unique variations of John include Jovani, which is of Italian origin, and Juhani, which is a Finnish name.
Long Names Like John
If you’re drawn to multi-syllabic names, there are plenty of long options out there that might appeal to you. One classic choice is Johnathan, which can be spelled with or without the “h” depending on your preference. Another option is Gionvanni, which is the Italian form of John. For something less common, you might consider Jehoshaphat, which is a Biblical name that means “God has judged.”
Short Names Like John
On the other hand, maybe you prefer shorter names that pack a punch. In that case, there are plenty of short and sweet options that are reminiscent of John. Jack is a timeless choice that has been popular for generations, while Jon is a simpler variation on the classic name. For something a little more unusual, you might consider Joss, which has a modern, streamlined feel to it.
Another option for a short and snappy name is Jay, which has a strong and confident sound. It can also be spelled as Jae or Jai, giving you some flexibility in choosing the spelling that you prefer. Alternatively, you might like the name Jett, which has a cool and edgy vibe to it. It’s a great choice for parents who want a name that stands out from the crowd.
If you’re looking for a short name that has a more traditional feel, you might consider Joe. This name has been a popular choice for generations and has a friendly and approachable sound to it. Another classic option is Jim, which has a timeless quality that never goes out of style. Whichever short name you choose, make sure it’s a name that you and your child will love for years to come.
John in Other Languages
It’s also worth noting that John has many variations in other languages. In French, it becomes Jean, while in Spanish it is Juan. In Italian, the name is Giovanni, while in German it is Johann. In Finnish, the name is Juhani, and in Korean, it is Seon.
Interestingly, the name John is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, which means “God is gracious”. This name has been popular throughout history and has been used by many notable figures, including John F. Kennedy, John Lennon, and John Steinbeck.
In some cultures, the name John is associated with certain traditions or celebrations. For example, in Ireland, St. John’s Eve is celebrated on June 23rd, which is the eve of the feast day of St. John the Baptist. In some parts of Mexico, the name Juan is associated with the Day of the Dead, a holiday that honors deceased loved ones.
Where Did the Name John Come From?
Finally, if you’re curious about the origins of the name John, it has its roots in Hebrew. The name is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan, which means “God is gracious.” It has been a popular name throughout history, with notable bearers including John the Baptist, John Lennon, and John F. Kennedy.
In conclusion, if you love the classic feel of the name John but want something a little different for your child, there are plenty of options out there to explore. From long names to short names, classic names to unique names, there is sure to be a name out there that feels just right.
Interestingly, the name John has also been used as a surname. In some cases, it was given to individuals who were the sons of someone named John. In other cases, it was used as a way to distinguish between individuals with the same first name. For example, if there were two men named John in a village, one might be called John the Baker and the other John the Blacksmith.
Additionally, the name John has been used in various cultures around the world. In Spanish, the name is Juan. In Italian, it is Giovanni. In French, it is Jean. Despite the different variations, the name has maintained its popularity and timeless appeal.