Joan - Name Meaning and Origin

The boy's and girl's name Joan \joan\ is pronounced jone. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "the Lord is gracious". Medieval feminine version of John. Joan of Arc, the Maid of Orleans, is portrayed as a national and political hero, as well as a religious heroine. She was canonized in 1920. The name was neglected for Jane by the 17th century. See also Joanna and Siobhan. Actresses Joan Crawford, Joan Collins; singer Joan Baez; comedienne Joan Rivers; musician Joni Mitchell; marathon runner Joan Benoit.

Joan has 6 variant forms: Joane, Joanie, Joannue, Jone, Jonee and Joni.

For more information, see also related names Jody, Johanna, Shavonne and Shona.

Baby names that sound like Joan are Jan, Joana, Jean and Joann.

Joan is a very popular female first name and a very rare surname (source: 1990 U.S. Census). Displayed below is the baby name popularity trend for the girl's name Joan. Click here to compare Joan with related baby names.