Boys Name: Jack

Derived from Jackin (earlier Jankin), a medieval diminutive of John, the Biblical English form of Iohannes, the Latin form of the Greek name Ιωαννης (Ioannes), itself derived from the Hebrew name יוֹחָנָן (Yochanan) meaning "YAHWEH is gracious" or "God is gracious". This name owes its popularity to two New Testament characters, both highly revered saints. The first is John the Baptist, a Jewish ascetic who was considered the forerunner of Jesus Christ. The second is the apostle John, who is traditionally regarded as the author of the fourth Gospel and Revelation. 
Jack is often regarded as an independent name. During the Middle Ages it was very common, and it became a slang word meaning "man". It was frequently used in fairy tales and nursery rhymes, such as 'Jack and the Beanstalk', 'Little Jack Horner', and 'Jack Sprat'. American writers Jack London (1876-1916) and Jack Kerouac (1922-1969) were two famous bearers of this name. It is also borne by American actor Jack Nicholson (1937-). - quoted from Behind The Name entry

Jack has been popular as an independent first name and in recent years it has ranked #1 in Ireland, Scotland and Northern Ireland. It has also ranked #2 in England and Wales, #2 in New Zealand, #4 in Australia and #41 in the USA.

I prefer it as a full name since John isn't a favorite of mine. I like the combos Jack Kenneth, Jack Alexander, Jack Miles and Jack Oliver.


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