Juana

Juana is a feminine given name of Spanish origin. It is the feminine form of Juan, the Spanish equivalent of John. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew Yohanan, meaning “God is gracious.” In Spanish-speaking countries, Juana is used as a standalone given name and appears in various compound or religiously inspired names. Variants in other languages include Joana in Portuguese and Joanna or Joanne in English.

The name has a long historical presence in Spain and Latin America and remains common across Spanish-speaking communities. It is often chosen for religious or familial reasons and is associated with several notable historical figures, saints, and literary characters through the centuries.

Notable people named Juana include Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz (1648–1695), a Mexican writer, poet, and intellectual who is regarded as one of the earliest defending voices of women’s rights in the Americas. Juana la Loca, a traditional name for Joanna of Castile (1479–1555), was Queen of Castile and is a frequently cited figure in history and literature. Juana Azurduy de Padilla (1780–1862) was a Bolivian military leader and independence fighter, celebrated for roles in the South American wars of independence. Juana de Ibarbourou (1892–1979), Uruguayan poet known as Juana de Ibarbourou, is recognized for her influence on 20th-century Latin American poetry.

In contemporary use, the name Juana remains common in Spanish-speaking countries and appears across various cultural and professional contexts, from politics and arts to sports.