Meaning, origin, history
Jehan is a male given name of French origin. It is derived from the Hebrew name John, which means "God is gracious" or "God has shown favor." In France, Jehan was a common form of the name John during the Middle Ages.
The name Jehan is most famously associated with the French poet François Villon, who wrote under the pseudonym of Jean le Fou (Jean the Mad). Villon's most famous work, the Testament, was written in the 15th century and is considered one of the masterpieces of French literature. In the Testament, Villon refers to himself as Jehan.
Today, Jehan is still used as a given name in France and other French-speaking countries. It has also been adopted by some English speakers who are drawn to its unique sound and historical significance. While it may not be as widely used as John or Jean, Jehan remains a distinctive and meaningful choice for parents seeking a unique name with a rich history.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Jehan since 1880
Total births
347
Total since 1880
Peak year
1988
27 births
in 2019
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+14%
↗
vs previous 5 years