Declining since 1985, #2,778 for girls today.
Popularity of Juanita since 1880
Babies named Juanita per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 446 |
| 1890s | 1,392 |
| 1900s | 3,837 |
| 1910s | 20,878 |
| 1920s | 48,547 |
| 1930s | 35,915 |
| 1940s | 30,443 |
| 1950s | 25,656 |
| 1960s | 16,968 |
| 1970s | 10,178 |
| 1980s | 6,561 |
| 1990s | 3,624 |
| 2000s | 1,947 |
| 2010s | 876 |
| 2020s | 416 |
Meaning & origin
Juanita is a Spanish diminutive of Juana, ultimately from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious.' It was most popular in the 1920s, peaking at rank 96 in 1924, and has since declined. In its peak year, it was given to over 6,000 babies; by 2025, it was given to approximately 1 in 26,349 newborns. The name was most common in Ohio and California. This trajectory reflects a broader shift away from traditional Spanish diminutives in favor of shorter, more modern names.
Juanita is a Spanish diminutive feminine form of Juan, the Spanish equivalent of John. It originates from the Hebrew name Yochanan, meaning 'Yahweh is gracious.' The -ita suffix is a common Spanish diminutive, often used affectionately. Historically, Juanita was widely used in Spanish-speaking communities and gained popularity in the United States during the early 20th century.
Where Juanita 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: Nita, Janie, Juan
Variants: Juana, Huana
Sibling names for Juanita
Names that share Juanita's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Juanita
Names whose popularity has moved with Juanita's over the last 50 years.
