Declining since 1985, #7,133 for girls today.
Popularity of Jenifer since 1933
Babies named Jenifer per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1930s | 39 |
| 1940s | 399 |
| 1950s | 1,344 |
| 1960s | 3,491 |
| 1970s | 8,169 |
| 1980s | 5,653 |
| 1990s | 3,061 |
| 2000s | 2,828 |
| 2010s | 467 |
| 2020s | 100 |
Meaning & origin
Jenifer is a spelling variant of the enduring classic Jennifer. U.S. Social Security records show the name first appearing in 1933, likely influenced by the mid-century popularity of Jennifer. It reached its peak rank in 1974, when it was among the top 1,000 names, but has since become less common. By 2025, it ranked 7,133rd, given to roughly 1 in every 107,151 newborns. The name has been on a downward trajectory since 1985, reflecting a broader shift away from mid-century favorites. Despite its decline, Jenifer remains a recognizable and accessible choice.
Jenifer is a spelling variant of Jennifer, itself an Anglicization of the Welsh name Gwenhwyfar, derived from 'gwen' (fair, white) and 'hwyfar' (smooth, soft). The name Guinevere, the legendary wife of King Arthur, is a cognate. Jenifer emerged as a separate spelling in the 20th century, sometimes influenced by French or Cornish forms.
Where Jenifer is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jen, Jenny, Jeni
Sibling names for Jenifer
Names that share Jenifer's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Jenifer
Names whose popularity has moved with Jenifer's over the last 50 years.
