Holding steady, #5,608 for boys today.
Popularity of Yianni since 1991
Babies named Yianni per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 83 |
| 2000s | 136 |
| 2010s | 156 |
| 2020s | 96 |
Meaning & origin
Yianni is a distinctly Greek name that entered U.S. records in 1991, reflecting modern immigration patterns. Its peak popularity came in 2011, after which it has held relatively stable usage, as indicated by its trajectory. The name is most commonly found in New York, which has a large Greek-American community. While Yianni remains comparatively rare (rank 5,608 in 2025), its steady presence demonstrates the enduring appeal of cultural heritage names within diaspora communities. The etymology ties it to the ancient and widespread name John, but Yianni's specifically Modern Greek form gives it a contemporary feel within Greek naming traditions.
Yianni is a modern Greek diminutive and variant of Ioannis, which is the Greek form of John. The name John ultimately derives from the Hebrew Yochanan, meaning 'God is gracious'. In Greek usage, Yianni (or Yiannis) is a common informal form, often used as a given name in its own right among the Greek diaspora. It gained some popularity in the United States following increased immigration from Greece in the 20th century.
Where Yianni is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Yianni
Names that share Yianni's style, for a brother or sister.
