Janko is a Slavic masculine given name of unknown etymology. It is used in various Slavic languages, including Croatian, Czech, and Slovak. The name Janko is believed to have originated from the Slavic word "jank" or "janka", which means "to yawn". However, there is no definitive evidence to support this theory.
The name Janko has been recorded as far back as the 16th century in Croatia. It was a popular given name among Croatians during the Middle Ages and continued to be used throughout the centuries. Today, Janko remains a common given name in Croatia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, and other Slavic countries.
Some notable people with the name Janko include Janko Kersnik, a Slovenian politician and journalist who played a significant role in establishing an independent Slovenia; Janko Tipsarević, a Serbian tennis player who reached a career-high ranking of No. 8 in the world; and Janko Doleček, a Czech composer and pianist whose works have been performed internationally.
Despite its unknown etymology, Janko remains a beloved given name among Slavic cultures, carrying with it a rich history and numerous notable figures throughout the centuries.
The name Janko has a unique presence in the United States, with only five babies being given this name each year on average between 2014 and 2018. This makes Janko a rare find among American baby names, ranking it among the least popular names during these years. Despite its scarcity, Janko remains a notable choice for parents who wish to give their child a distinctive name that stands out from the crowd.