Janusz

Janusz is a masculine given name of Polish origin. It is formed from Jan (John) using the common Polish suffix -usz, and is recognized as a standalone name rather than a mere nickname. The root Jan derives from the Latin Ioannes, itself from the Hebrew name Yohanan, meaning "God is gracious."

Janusz is widely used in Poland and among Polish-speaking communities, with its usage peaking in the mid-20th century. Today it remains common but is sometimes associated with an older generation. The name also appears in Polish literature and film, reflecting its long-standing presence in Polish culture.

In contemporary discourse, Janusz has acquired a cultural meaning beyond a personal name. It is used in memes and social commentary to describe a stereotypical, provincial, sometimes socially awkward man; the term is not universally negative but can carry pejorative connotations depending on context.

Notable people named Janusz include Janusz Korczak (Henryk Goldszmit), a Polish-Jewish educator, writer and pediatrician; Janusz Kamiński, a Polish-born American cinematographer and two-time Academy Award winner; Janusz Głowacki, a prominent writer and playwright; and Janusz Palikot, a Polish entrepreneur and former politician.