Johan

boyHebrewChristian

Johan is a Christian boy name of Hebrew, via Latin and German origin, meaning “God is gracious”.

MeaningGod is gracious
GenderBoy
OriginHebrew, via Latin and German
PronunciationYOH-hahn
TraditionChristian
Used inSweden, Netherlands, Norway, Denmark

Meaning and origin of Johan

Johan is a shortened Scandinavian, Dutch and German form of Johannes, the Latin version of the Hebrew Yochanan, 'God has been gracious'. It belongs to the vast family of names descended from John the Baptist and John the Apostle. In Sweden, Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands it has been a staple for centuries. The Dutch footballer Johan Cruyff is among its best-known bearers.

Is Johan a Christian name?

Johan is a Christian name through its link to John the Baptist and the Apostle John, two of the most honoured figures in the New Testament. Its Hebrew root also connects it to the older Jewish name Yochanan.

How popular is Johan?

A long-established classic in Scandinavia and the Netherlands, used occasionally in English-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Johan

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Spellings and variants of Johan

JohannJohannesJohnJanJuan

Names similar to Johan

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Johan mean?

Johan means 'God is gracious'. It is of Hebrew, via Latin and German origin.

Is Johan a Christian name?

Johan is a Christian name through its link to John the Baptist and the Apostle John, two of the most honoured figures in the New Testament. Its Hebrew root also connects it to the older Jewish name Yochanan.

How do you pronounce Johan?

Johan is pronounced YOH-hahn.

Is Johan a boy or girl name?

Johan is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.