Declining since 2021, #9,714 for boys today.
Popularity of Hanz since 1973
Babies named Hanz per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 11 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 12 |
| 2000s | 20 |
| 2010s | 41 |
| 2020s | 41 |
Meaning & origin
Hanz is a German diminutive of Johannes, equivalent to Hans. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1973, and it peaked in popularity in 2022. However, its trajectory has been falling since 2021, suggesting a decline in recent use. With a rank of 9,714 as of 2025 and an incidence of 1 in 244,011 births, Hanz remains a rare but recognizable choice. The name is strongly associated with German heritage and is a short, punchy alternative to the more common Hans.
Hanz is a German short form of Johannes, which derives from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'God is gracious'. It originated as a nickname but has been used as an independent given name in German-speaking countries since the Middle Ages.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Hanz
Names that share Hanz's style, for a brother or sister.
