Janice, a classic and timeless name, continues to intrigue parents considering options for their baby girls. But how popular is the name Janice, and what lies behind its enduring appeal? Let’s delve into the history and trends associated with this moniker.
(Image of Janice – the image from the original article)
Janice Name Popularity
The popularity of Janice has seen significant shifts over the past century. Examining the data provides a clear picture of these trends.
According to data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), the name Janice began to appear in records around 1910, holding a relatively low rank of 479 with only 36 births. The name gradually gained traction throughout the early 20th century. The rise in popularity continued year after year, with some fluctuations.
The real surge in Janice’s popularity began in the mid-1930s. By 1936, it jumped to rank 31, with 6,147 births. The name Janice hit its peak between the late 1930s and the 1950s. In 1946 and 1947, Janice reached its highest rank of 22, with over 14,000 and 15,000 births respectively. During this era, Janice was a staple name, resonating with a generation.
However, the story doesn’t end there. Like many names that experience periods of intense popularity, Janice’s prevalence began to decline in the 1960s. From a high of 22 in the 1940s, the rank slid to 41 in 1960, and then to 80 by 1966. This downward trend continued steadily. By 2000, Janice held a rank of 751 and has continued falling ever since. In 2023, the name Janice was ranked at 2,095, with only 46 births recorded.
Yearly Popularity Chart (referencing the state chart from the original article)
This data illustrates the changing tastes and preferences of parents over time. While Janice isn’t as common as it once was, it retains a vintage charm that appeals to some.
Janice: Meaning and Origin
While the provided article focuses on the popularity of the name, it omits some important information about the origin and meaning of Janice. Janice is generally considered to be a diminutive of the name Jane, which itself is derived from the Hebrew name Yochanah, meaning "God is gracious." This association with divine grace adds a layer of depth to the name’s significance.
Names Like Janice
If the sound or style of Janice appeals to you, there are several similar names to consider.
Variants of Janice:
- Janeece
- Janess
- Janessa (American)
- Janesse (American)
- Janessia
- Janicia
- Janiece
- Janique (Hebrew, "God is gracious")
- Janis (Hebrew, "God is gracious")
- Janise (Hebrew, "God is gracious")
- Janiss
- Jannice
- Jannis
- Janyce
- Jency
- Jenice (English)
- Jeniece (Hebrew, "God is gracious")
- Jenise (English)
- Jennice
Names That Sound Like Janice:
- Anice (Greek, "Satisfaction")
- Annice (Hebrew, "Pure, holy; satisfaction; He (God) has favored me")
- Eunice (Greek, "Good victory")
- Jeanice (Hebrew, "God is gracious")
- Joniece (American)
- Unice (Greek, "Good victory")
Similar Names to Janice:
- Branice (Hebrew)
- Jan (Hebrew, "God is gracious") – Also a male name.
- Jenessa
The Enduring Appeal of Janice
While the name Janice may not be topping the charts today, it possesses a certain elegance and simplicity that continues to resonate with some parents. Its history, meaning, and the variety of similar-sounding names provide a range of options for those who appreciate the classic charm of Janice. Whether you’re drawn to its vintage appeal or its association with divine grace, Janice remains a name with a rich and interesting story.