What does the surname Janis mean?

The surname Janis means "Derived from the given name Janis, the Baltic form of John.". It is of Latvian, Lithuanian origin.

How common is the Janis surname?

There are approximately 45,000 people with the surname Janis in the United States.

Are there Janis soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 9 soldiers with the Janis surname appear in Civil War records.

Janis

Patronymic

Meaning

Derived from the given name Janis, the Baltic form of John.

Etymology

Janis is the Latvian and Lithuanian equivalent of John, ultimately from Hebrew Yohanan meaning 'God is gracious'. The surname developed as a patronymic from this widespread given name.

About the Janis Surname

A common Baltic surname reflecting the prevalence of the name John in the region. It remains one of the most frequent surnames in Latvia and Lithuania.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 45,000 bearers in the United States #549 most common surname

Rare Common

Primarily found in Latvia and Lithuania.

Janis Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Janis Surname

Frank Janis

Quick Facts

Origin: Latvian, Lithuanian
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: 19th century
Estimated Bearers: 45,000

War Records

9 soldiers with the Janis surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →