jenny

Jenny is a female given name, commonly used as a diminutive of Jennifer, though it is also used independently. It is widely recognized in English-speaking countries and beyond.

Origin and etymology: Jennifer is traditionally understood to derive from Gwenhwyfar, the Welsh form of Guinevere. The English form Jennifer gained popularity after being introduced via the Cornish form Jenifer and through later French and English usage. The shortened form Jenny emerged as a natural diminutive and eventually became established as a given name in its own right.

Usage and popularity: Jenny has long functioned as a familiar or affectionate form of Jennifer in many households and communities. Jennifer was exceptionally popular in the United States and other English-speaking countries during the mid to late 20th century, and Jenny continues to be used as a standalone name or as a nickname.

Notable bearers: Notable individuals named Jenny include Jenny Holzer, an American conceptual artist; Jenny Lewis, an American singer-songwriter; and Jenny Slate, an American actress and comedian. The name appears across diverse fields, including arts, entertainment, and literature.

Other uses and variants: In addition to its use as a personal name, jenny is also a common noun for a female donkey. Related given-name variants include Jenni, Jen, Ginny, and Jenny as a longer form of Jennifer, with Gwen or Gwenhwyfar serving as the broader Welsh-rooted counterpart.

In culture: The name Jenny appears in music and fiction, reflecting its broad familiarity in English-language culture.