John Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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John

[dʒɒn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

name

A male given name originating from Hebrew. It is one of the most common names in English-speaking countries.

Synonyms

Jon, jack.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
John

Same as the first entry.

  • John, could you please look over this report?
  • I'm meeting John for lunch today.
Jon

This is generally a shortened form of Jonathan but can be used for John as well. It is less formal than John but more neutral than Jack, fitting for both semi-formal and informal settings.

  • Jon will be leading the meeting today.
  • Can you ask Jon to send the email?
jack

This is often used as a nickname for John or as an independent name. It is casual and friendly, suitable for informal conversations and situations where a relaxed tone is appropriate.

  • Hey Jack, are you coming to the party tonight?
  • Jack is really good at playing the guitar.

Examples of usage

  • John is a popular name for boys.
  • John Smith is a common name.
  • John is often shortened to 'Jon'.
Context #2 | Noun

Bible

In the Bible, John is a significant figure, including John the Baptist and John the Apostle.

Synonyms

Johann, Juan.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
John

Commonly used in English-speaking countries. Suitable for casual and formal situations.

  • John is a very reliable coworker.
  • Can you pass this message to John, please?
Johann

Typically used in German-speaking countries or in reference to historical figures from those regions. Often associated with formality.

  • Johann Sebastian Bach is a famous composer.
  • Johann works as a lawyer in Munich.
Juan

Commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries. Suitable for both casual and formal situations similar to 'John' in English.

  • Juan is coming to the party tonight.
  • Please meet Juan, our new manager.

Examples of usage

  • John the Baptist baptized Jesus.
  • The Gospel of John is one of the four Gospels.
Context #3 | Noun

informal

Used informally to refer to a toilet or bathroom.

Synonyms

bathroom, loo.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
John

Slang term primarily used in the US for a toilet. It is informal and can sometimes be seen as crude or humorous.

  • I'll be back in a minute; I need to use the John.
  • The John is out of order.
bathroom

Commonly used in the US, appropriate in polite and formal settings when referring to a room where the toilet and a shower or bath are located.

  • Could you please tell me where the bathroom is?
  • I need to clean the bathroom this weekend.
loo

Commonly used in the UK, informal yet widely acceptable even in semi-formal social contexts when referring to a toilet.

  • Excuse me, could you point me to the loo?
  • I need to pop to the loo before we leave.

Examples of usage

  • I'll be right back, I need to use the john.
  • The john is down the hall on the left.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • Many kings and religious figures were named John, including John the Baptist, who is an important figure in Christianity.
  • John Locke, a famous philosopher, greatly influenced modern political thought with his views on liberty and government.

Pop Culture

  • The name John appears frequently in movies and books, often characterizing relatable, everyman types.
  • John Lennon, a member of The Beatles, is one of the most iconic musicians globally, influencing music and culture.

Famous People

  • John F. Kennedy was the 35th president of the United States, known for his inspiring speeches and leadership during the Cold War.
  • John Steinbeck, an American author, won the Nobel Prize in Literature and is known for novels like 'The Grapes of Wrath'.

Cultural Variations

  • In various cultures, the name has different meanings and significance, such as being a popular name for saints.
  • In some traditions, the name is given in honor of family members, keeping legacies alive across generations.

Origin of 'John'

Main points about word origin

  • The name John comes from the Hebrew name Yochanan, which means 'God is gracious'.
  • Variants of the name exist in many cultures, such as Juan in Spanish and Giovanni in Italian.

The name John has ancient origins, deriving from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning 'Yahweh is gracious'. It has been a popular name throughout history, with notable figures such as John F. Kennedy, John Lennon, and John Doe. The name has been used in various cultures and languages, symbolizing strength, leadership, and kindness.


See also: Jonathon.