Meaning & History
Johanne is a feminine given name used in French, Danish, Norwegian, and Medieval French contexts. It is a form of Joanna, which itself derives from Latin Iohanna, the feminine of Ioannes (see John). Ultimately, the name traces back to the Hebrew name Yahweh. In the New Testament, Joanna is mentioned as a follower of Jesus, and Johanne can be seen as a vernacular equivalent.
Etymology and History
Johanne is the Old French equivalent of Joanna, and it became common in French Canada and other French-speaking regions. In Denmark and Norway, it is also a traditional form of Johanna. Variants include Joanne in French and Johanna in Norwegian. Diminutives such as Joannie (French Quebec), Hanna 2, Hanne 1, and Janne 2 (Norwegien), Jannie and Jonna (Danish) are also used.
Notable Bearers
Notable individuals with the name Johanne include Danish actress Johanne Luise Heiberg (1812–1890), Norwegian actress Johanne Bruhn (1890–1921), Canadian water polo player Johanne Bégin (born 1971), and Canadian politician Johanne Deschamps (born 1959). Others include Johanne Falardeau, a Canadian badminton player, and Johanne Paradis, a language scientist. In popular culture, “Morissette” (born 1996), a Filipina singer, also bears the full name Johannne Morissette.
Cultural Significance
The name Johanne enjoys particular use in French Canada, reflecting its Old French origins. In Norway and Denmark, it has been a classic name for centuries, often associated with the biblical name Johanna, which is spelled similarly in many languages.
- Meaning: God is gracious (from Hebrew Yohanan)
- Origin: Hebrew via Greek and Latin
- Type: feminine given name
- Usage: Danish, French, Norwegian, Medieval French
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Johanne