Jolene is a feminine given name of English origin, created in the early 20th century. It is formed from Jo, a short form of names such as Joan, Joanna, or Josephine, and the common name suffix lene, which is also found in names like Marlene and Arlene. The name thereby carries connotations of its root names, ultimately descending from the Hebrew name Joan (or Joanna), meaning 'God is gracious.' The name Jolene remained relatively uncommon until it received a massive boost in popularity from Dolly Parton's 1973 song 'Jolene.' The song, written and performed by the American country music icon, tells the story of a woman pleading with a beautiful rival not to take her man. It became a major hit, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and earning critical acclaim. In 2021, Rolling Stone ranked it number 63 on its list of the '500 Greatest Songs of All Time.' The song's enduring popularity has led to numerous covers by artists such as Olivia Newton-John, The White Stripes, Miley Cyrus, and Måneskin, as well as a 2016 Grammy-winning version by Pentatonix. As a result, the name Jolene became strongly associated with the song and its themes of beauty and vulnerability. Notable Bearers Beyond the song, the name has been borne by several notable individuals, including American actress Jolene Blalock (known for Star Trek: Enterprise) and Australian actress Jolene Anderson. However, the most famous bearer remains the fictional character in Parton's song, which has become a cultural touchstone. Cultural Significance The name Jolene is a prime example of how popular culture can influence naming trends. Before 1973, the name was rarely used in the United States, but following the song's release, it saw a significant surge in popularity, particularly during the 1970s and again in the 2010s. It remains in occasional use today, often chosen by parents who admire the song or its nostalgic charm. Variants Spelling variants of Jolene include Joleen and Joline, with the latter also used as a Swedish feminine form. A related diminutive is Jojo. Meaning: 'God is gracious' (through its roots Jo/Joanna) Origin: English (created in early 20th century) Type: coined name (Jo + suffix -lene) Usage regions: English-speaking countries, especially United States