Juana

Juana is the Spanish feminine form of Juan, belonging to the John name family. Its ultimate Hebrew root gives it the meaning “God is gracious.” The name has a long Spanish-language history and is not simply a modern attempt to adapt a masculine name. It shares its deeper roots with Johanna, Jane, and other forms used across languages.

Writer Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz provides a major literary and intellectual association. Juanita is a familiar affectionate form that can also be used independently. In Spanish, the initial J differs from the usual English J sound, so a spoken introduction can be helpful. Parents choosing Juana may value that specific language connection or use it to honor a Juan or another family member in the same name tradition.