João - A pleasant boy name

João is a masculine given name of Portuguese origin, the Portuguese form of John. It is a popular name in Portugal, Brazil, and other Portuguese-speaking countries.

What’s the origin of João

The name João has a long history, dating back to the ancient Greeks. It derives from the ancient Greek name Iōánnēs (ἸΓαννής), which itself originates in the Hebrew name Yochanan (יוֹחָנָן).

What’s the meaning of João

João means “Yahweh is gracious” and “Yahweh is merciful” (from Hebrew “yo/יֹו”, abbreviation of “yeho/יְהוֹ” = referring to the Hebrew God + “חנן/חָנַן” = to show favor/to be gracious).

Variants of João

• John
• Giovanni
• Juan
• Sean
• Shane

Similar names

• Jonas
• Jorge
• José
• Joaquím
• Julian

Phonetics

João (zhwãw) is a slightly difficult name to pronounce with a pleasant sonority