The nameHans

Hans is the short German and Scandinavian form of John. In France it has been given quietly since the early 20th century.

Meaning

It comes from Johannes, from the Hebrew Yohanan, "God is gracious".

Origin

Hebrew, through German.

History

Hans is one of the most typical names of the German-speaking world. In France it is rare but steady, with a slight revival from the 1970s to the 1990s.

Famous people named Hans

Popularity of the name Hans

Hans in France

4968thmost popular boys' name in France, latest official figures
1943peak year (70 births)
2,215babies named Hans in France since 1900
03570 1900192019401960198020002020
Births per year in France. Source: Insee, French national statistics office, latest official figures. Rounded numbers.

Hans was most popular in France in the 1980s, with 355 births over the decade, 16% of all recorded babies named Hans. Half of all babies named Hans in France were born before 1978, so it is mostly a parents' generation name.

Variants and related names

Hans in our baby name lists

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Hans mean?

It comes from Johannes, from the Hebrew Yohanan, "God is gracious".

What is the origin of the name Hans?

Hebrew, through German.

Is Hans a girl's or a boy's name?

Hans is a boy's name.

What are the variants of the name Hans?

Variants and related names of Hans include Johannes.

Who are famous people named Hans?

Hans Christian Andersen, Danish writer; Hans Zimmer, film composer.