MallowbyNames

Jonni

JON-ee · God is gracious

Peak popularity
1957
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 1990

Declining since 1990.

Popularity of Jonni since 1943

Babies named Jonni per year in U.S. Social Security records.

1327401960198020002020Most births 1957Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1940s72
1950s248
1960s209
1970s168
1980s189
1990s181
2000s91
2010s86
2020s49

Meaning & origin

Jonni is a feminine given name that emerged as a spelling variant of Johnny, itself a diminutive of John. First recorded in the U.S. in 1943, Jonni saw its peak usage in 1957, during a decade when similar diminutive forms like Joanie and Susie were also popular. The name has been on a steady decline since 1990, reflecting a broader shift away from nickname-style names for girls. Although it has never ranked in the top 1000, its mid-century character and connection to the enduring John root give it a distinct retro appeal. The name is most closely associated with the 1950s, though its revival potential remains limited.

Jonni is a variant of Johnny, itself a diminutive of John. John comes from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' This spelling emerged in the mid-20th century as an alternative form of the more common Johnny or Jonny, reflecting a trend toward simplified or creative spellings.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Jo, Joni

Variants: Johnny, Jonny, Joni

Sibling names for Jonni

Names that share Jonni's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Joanie, Peggy, Susie, Bobby, Tommy

Brothers: Billy, Jimmy, Timmy, Donny, Ronnie

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

J is for Jonni, our favorite little girl.

J is for Jonni…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Jonni's letter becomes Jonni's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Jonni's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Jonni mean?
Jonni means 'God is gracious,' derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan via John.
How popular is the name Jonni?
Jonni has never ranked in the U.S. top 1000. It peaked in 1957 at rank 1957 and has been falling since 1990.
Is Jonni a boy's or girl's name?
Jonni is primarily used for girls, though it is a variant of the traditionally masculine Johnny.