US Popularity Rank: 3679

Origin: British

Meaning: God is gracious; God's gracious gift

Janet is a girl's name of British origin meaning "God is gracious" or "God's gracious gift." It is a particularly popular name in Scotland and is thought to have originated as a pet name for the more prevalent girl's name, Jane. A feminine form of John, Jane comes from the Hebrew name Yochanan, so Janet has roots in Judaism, too. In more recent times and with a legacy that will outlive us all, the name Janet came into the spotlight as a result of Hollywood siren Janet Leigh and popstar royalty, Janet Jackson.