Jóhannes

Jóhannes is the Icelandic form of the given name John. It derives from the Latin Ioannes, which in turn comes from the Greek Ioannes and ultimately from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning “Yahweh is gracious.” The name has a long history in Iceland and remains a common personal name in the country.

In Icelandic naming practice, Jóhannes is used as a first name and is typically followed by a patronymic rather than a family surname (for example, a person named Jóhannes might have the surname Jónsson or something similar based on the father’s given name). The form has appeared in Icelandic records since medieval times, reflecting widespread Christian and European naming influences.

Variants and related forms exist in other languages, including Johannes in German and Dutch, Johan/Johannes in various Scandinavian languages, and John in English. The Icelandic form shares its root with these names but is distinct in spelling and pronunciation within Icelandic tradition.

Notable bearers include Jóhannes Sveinsson Kjarval (1885–1972), an important Icelandic painter known for his landscapes and depictions of Icelandic life. The name is used across generations and across different fields in Iceland, from history and literature to contemporary public life.

See also: John, Johannes, Johan, Jón (Icelandic form of John).