Johanna

Traditionally interpreted as ‘God is gracious’.

Johanna is a classic feminine given name used in many European languages, especially in German-speaking regions. It reads as formal and well-established, and it has several familiar short forms in everyday use. Etymologically, Johanna is commonly explained as the feminine form of John, ultimately going back to the Hebrew name Yehochanan (also seen as Yochanan) with a traditional interpretation of ‘God is gracious’. The name spread broadly through Greek and Latin usage before becoming standard in many modern languages. In English, a practical pronunciation guide is yo-HAN-uh, with the stress on the middle syllable. In German contexts you may hear a slightly different vowel quality, so it can be helpful to ask the bearer’s preferred pronunciation when in doubt.

Etymology: Johanna is a feminine form of John, ultimately from Hebrew Yehochanan/Yochanan. It entered many European languages through Greek and Latin forms.