Janie

Janie is a feminine given name used in English-speaking countries. It is commonly a diminutive form of Jane or Janet, though it is frequently used as a standalone name as well. The name Jane derives from John, via Old French Jeanne, with the meaning "God is gracious." As a result, Janie carries the same underlying meaning and biblical associations, even when used independently.

In usage, Janie has appeared across periods and regions, often among families favoring traditional or informal forms of classic names. It functions as a familiar or affectionate version of Jane, but is also chosen for its straightforward, approachable sound. Variants and related forms include Jannie, Janey, and, less commonly, Jani.

In literature, Janie is notably associated with Janie Crawford, the protagonist of Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God (1937). The character's name is central to the novel's exploration of selfhood and independence.

Overall, Janie is recognized as a gentle, traditional name with cultural resonance in English-speaking contexts, continuing to appear in fiction, music, and public life. Related names include Jane, Janet, Janice, and Jannie.