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 has seen a significant decrease in popularity over the past century in the United States. Between 1914 and 1928, there were more than 1,750 births recorded annually, with a peak of 1,183 births in 1929. However, from the 1930s onwards, the popularity of the name began to decline.
During the 1940s and 1950s, there were still over 250 births each year on average. But as time went on, this number continued to decrease. By the 1970s, there were fewer than 300 births per year, and in the 1980s, this figure dropped below 200.
The trend of decreasing popularity continued into the 1990s, with fewer than 50 births recorded each year on average. And between 2000 and 2023, there have been only a handful of Jeannine births per year, with some years seeing less than ten newborn girls named Jeannine.
Overall, the total number of Jeannine births in the United States since 1914 is 24,049. Despite its once-popularity, it appears that the name Jeannine has fallen out of favor in recent decades.