Joanna

Joanna is a female given name used in many languages, derived from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning "Yahweh is gracious." Variants include Johanna, JoAnne, Joannie, and Joana. In some languages it appears as Juana (Spanish) or Joana (Portuguese), reflecting regional spelling and pronunciation.

Historically, the name appears in biblical and post-biblical contexts and gained popularity in medieval Europe. A well-known biblical figure is Johanna, a follower who supported Jesus and his mission. Over the centuries, Joanna and its variants have remained common in English-speaking countries and across many European and Latin American cultures.

Notable people named Joanna include Joanna Newsom, an American musician and harpist known for her unique style; Joanna Lumley, a British actress and activist; Joanna Gaines, an American designer, author, and television personality; and Juana la Loca (Joanna of Castile), a 15th–16th century queen of Castile often cited in historical narratives. The name appears in other fields as well, reflecting its broad cultural reach.

In modern usage, Joanna remains a widely recognized given name with diverse spellings and adaptations. It appears in literature, film, and music as a culturally cross‑lingual choice, conveying a classic yet contemporary feel. The name’s variants often signal regional lineage while preserving the same root meaning.

See also: Johanna, JoAnne, Joannie, Joana.