Hannes

Hannes is a masculine given name used in several European countries. In many contexts it functions as a diminutive or affectionate form of Johannes, the Latin form of John, but in some cultures it is used as an independent given name.

Etymology and usage: It derives from Johannes and is commonly found in German-speaking regions, Scandinavia, Finland, and Estonia. In Estonia and Finland it is widely treated as a stand-alone name.

Geographic distribution: Hannes is widely used in Germany, Austria, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia, and it can be encountered in other parts of Europe and in diaspora communities.

Notable people: Hannes Alfvén (1903–1995), a Swedish physicist and Nobel Prize laureate, is among the best known bearers of the name.

Variants and related names: Related forms include Hans, Johannes, Johan, and Jan. In other languages, cognates include János (Hungarian) and Ioannes, among others.