I think Jane is a beautiful name. It is strong, feminine, classy and ageless. I can picture the name Jane on a little girl, a teenager, a young adult, and an elderly woman. I also love the cool association with “G.I. Jane”. Overall, I think Jane is a gorgeous classic that you really can't go wrong with.
I honestly wonder if a lot of the reason people think the name Jane is boring is because it’s the common view of it—‘plain Jane’ and all. It seems just like other popular and/or once common names like Emma, Sarah, Joan, Lia, etc., which aren’t always considered to be boring, so what makes Jane boring in comparison? I don’t personally see it, but everyone has their opinions.
A fictional bearer of this name is Jane from the mobile game Path to Nowhere. She’s a sheriff and ex-bank robber, but she’s extremely competent, dedicated, and serious about righting wrongs and making up for what she’s done; she also has a very dry, deadpan sense of humor and makes jokes a lot.
Jane Doe is a playable physical anomaly agent in the video game Zenless Zone Zero. She is a criminal behaviour specialist working as a consultant for the Criminal Investigation Special Response Team.
Many of the Janes I've known have been sophisticated and artistic, and they have all been strong and confident. I think Jane Marie is a very pretty combo.
I've always enjoyed the name Jane; it reminds me of one of my favorites, Janet! I don't understand the "plainness" that people think of (when hearing the name Jane); I believe that it sounds beautiful. If you're considering the name Jane (for your daughter), know that you can't go wrong with it!
Jane is beautiful! It reminds me of Jane Eyre, one of my favourite books, and she is such a strong, admirable character.I would love to use this name with the nickname Jenny (in medieval times Jenny was a diminutive of Jane).Overall, wonderful name! :)
Jane's name is grounded in the everydayness of plain, simple and commonplace language, yet it possesses an inherent beauty and reveals the extensive reaches of meaning that can surface through the humblest of things. The purity of its unassuming form permits a disclosure of the essence of being, which naturally draws people towards that which is rooted in the timeless and unchanging truth. The enlightenment which emerges through such mundane and overlooked things is a reminder to our existence, we must strive to move beyond the superficial and connect with the deeper essence of being.
― Anonymous User 4/10/2023
6
Jane Marczewski (I think I spelled her last name right), better known as Nightbirde, was a contestant on America's Got Talent. Her original song, "It's Ok", got her a golden buzzer from Simon Cowell. She had been battling cancer and unfortunately had to drop out of the competition due to a decline in health. Sadly, she passed away in February of 2022. She was a woman of great faith in God, and left behind beautiful songs and inspiration.
― Anonymous User 3/1/2023
2
Look everyone it's plain Jane with plain bangs, plain bags and a plain name!
I’d change my name from Jada —> Jade —> Jane. It’s so much prettier.
― Anonymous User 7/18/2022
2
My mother had me- Jane Ann when she was 15/16. Her mother/my Grandmother Anna wanted to name me so my mother couldn’t name me Nancy. I would’ve hated Nancy. My Grandma named me after the character Jane Eyre from Charlotte Bronte’s book. My mother use to call me Janie sometimes when she was with us. God comfort her dear soul. I miss my mom Carol Ann tremendously. I once met Dr. Oz and was gifted some items and he was going to sign one of the items. He asked me how I spell Jane. I forgot that people do spell it differently like Jayne, etc. Sometimes people don’t understand me when I say my name is Jane. They strangely hear something else or something. Some people have actually read it wrong as Jan or Jan nee, or who knows what else. Sometimes I feel like it should be spelled the way it sounds but that’s just not the case. It’s Jane not Jayn! Jane is Hebrew for God is gracious I believe or I have heard gift from God even?! Ann means graceful in Hebrew. I became Muslim in 1991 and sometimes use the name Jamilah which means in Arabic beautiful that an imam thought of for me and my ex liked. I’m Jane Ann Marcinkiewicz. I would’ve been Jane Er after marrying a Turk named Omer Er. But, I didn’t take his last name. I kept my mother’s last name I’ve had since birth. I’m Polish, Irish and Puerto Rican. My mom was Polish and Irish. My daughter Zara is half Turkish. My son Zak (or Zakee) is half Yemeni. People say Jane is plain and some think it’s ugly but I’m grateful for my names. I would never change the names my mother and grandmother gave me. To me, that simply wouldn’t be nice. I guess that’s all I want to say about my name. Also, I remember growing up people saying they were Tarzan or bringing up some songs I didn’t know and one guy use to say ‘Jane stop this crazy thing’ from some song. Whatever! Guys were always strange! As a 48 year old, Jane suits me just fine. And, there’s not a great deal of Janes here in Manhattan, NY so I like that! There seems to be more Zaras like my daughter’s name than Janes.
Someone has already mentioned her, but the titular protagonist of ‘Jane and the Dragon’ was indeed one Jane Turnkey. Originally intended to follow in her mother’s footsteps as a lady-in-waiting to the princess, she instead turned her ambition to becoming the first female knight, proving her worth and right to train by rescuing the prince from a dragon at the age of 10. According to creator Martin Baynton, she later changes her name to Jane d’Ark, after learning that her maternal grandfather was also a knight, felled in battle — I wonder if the similarity to Jeanne d’Arc was intentional.
I absolutely love this name. It is so cute! My cousin's name is Jane Ellis, Ellis being her middle name. I love those two names together, and when paired they mean 'angel or child of god'.
My name is Jane, after the song "Jane Says" by Jane's Addiction. I'm 15 and the only one in my graduating class of nearly 2,000. When I was younger, I didn't like it. I thought of Plain Jane. Now I love it. It's classic, feminine, and stylish. It also sounds unique in a sea of Emma and Sophias. It's currently at #275 on the name charts. I don't know why people hate it so much, and even more, how people think it's still common. Be wary, though, that it's slowly (but surely) rising. It currently, out of 5,000 names, sits at #92 on the girl's name charts on nameberry.com.
Really common and old-fashioned, but I love it, whether as a first name or middle name. It's pretty and timeless. In middle school, my classmate had an older sister named Jane.
Jane is not plain! She is a stand out in a crowd in the sea of modern names. Jane is a positive and intelligent name. Plus the nickname Janie is so cute. It is a good choice for people who want an unproblematic classic.
Simple and lovely. Every Jane I have known has been interesting and accomplished, probably indicating something about the kinds of parents who choose an unadorned classic.
I didn’t like this name much until I really started thinking about names. I’m loving Jane. It is a classic and not at all overused. I adore Jane Austen, as well as her book Pride and Prejudice which had a Jane Bennett. This name is also used in my childhood favorite movie Mary Poppins, as well as in Tarzan, and Peter Pan Return to Neverland. I also loved the show Jane the Virgin! I can’t believe I never realized the beauty of the name until my husband suggested it for our child.
Pretty, but I don't like the association of Plain Jane...
― Anonymous User 3/8/2021
-1
Boring boring boring! There is nothing standout or special about this name at all.
― Anonymous User 3/3/2021
-14
Not of my favorites, but I think this name is really classic, simple, feminine and should be used more as first name, otherwise name being used too much as middle name is just losing their charm, quality. Jane is an alright name, better than many trendy names these days. Not bad.
My name is Jane Elizabeth. My mother named me after Jane Austen. I love this name to death. It is so classic and elegant and timeless, how could anyone think this is plain?
― Anonymous User 1/23/2021
17
It has the nickname ‘Plain Jane’, but Jane might be unique in her own way. This is a very beautiful name.
― Anonymous User 12/30/2020
8
A complete and utter timeless classic.Modesty, dignity and muliebrity all packed neatly into this 4 letter 1 syllable humble little name.And with Jane Eyre and Jane Fonda - you're in good company too.I love this for a first name more than middle. The people who see this name as "plain" are missing soo much.
― Anonymous User 12/19/2020
11
I don't agree that this name is plain. Plain is defined as ordinary; not special. Jane is short and the spelling is simple, but so is Emma and Ada, and those names are topping the charts. To me Jane is elegant and timelessly beautiful. I would argue it's not common anymore; I don't know ANY Jane's, and I work in healthcare, I see new patients everyday. I really love this name.
To be honest, the name is pretty plain, it’s really nice as a middle name.
― Anonymous User 9/27/2020
-4
The Americans and the English have the ugliest names. Jane. One syllable. I mean could they not put a bit of effort in to at least give it two syllables? Sad, really. My poor sister was given this name and I got the name of a legendary Irish beauty and I turned out beautiful and she was plain as a pin. SO unfair to do that to her. Everything about her is plain so she overcompensates.
PLEASE NEVER NAME YOUR KID JANE! My name is Jane and I hate it and I'm gonna change it. It made my life so much harder, especially in school. Plus it is super boring!
― Anonymous User 8/24/2020
-10
This is my middle name! My full name is Lucy Emilia Jane. I've always loved it, and thought is was such a beautiful classic name.
― Anonymous User 8/16/2020
13
It’s the perfect middle name, in my opinion! I think it’s a little too short to stand on its own as a first name, but put together with another name as a middle name or a second first name, I think it’s great.
― Anonymous User 7/24/2020
1
I like Jane. I like it because it is the name of Jane Eyre, and sounds short and sweet.
― Anonymous User 7/19/2020
13
I prefer Christine or Anne, but Jane is such a beautiful name too. Jane should be more popular, and every time I hear Jade I think Jane. Whenever I meet a Jade, I accidentally say Jane. I like both Jane and Jade. There's also Jane from Tarzan.
I really like the name Jane. It sounds very mature, classy, and elegant. I don't think of it as plain or unoriginal; it's very uncommon nowadays. If you ask me, the real unoriginal names are the made-up, trendoid ones like Kaylee, Jayden, Braelyn, etc. Jane is unique and beautiful and it would be great to see it being used more often.
Why does everyone love Jade but hate the name Jane? It’s literally the exact same thing.
― Anonymous User 5/14/2020
8
Unfortunately, I'm stuck with the name Jane, and I hope to change it. The name is so boring and just ew, whenever my name is mentioned I get a strong feeling of hatred. I know it sounds stupid, but I cry a lot thinking of my name. If you're considering naming your kid Jane, I'd advise you to reconsider. I feel bad for anyone stuck with this horrible name. Whenever you hear the name Jane you think of 'plain Jane' or someone boring and serious.
Jane is such a beautiful name, and it’s very sweet and simple. I can see how it’s boring, but I just love it. It has just a pretty taste to it. It also works well as a middle name. Some of my favorite combos of it is in this list I put together- Jane Rose Jane Anne Jane Hannah Katherine Jane Lucy Jane (I was almost named this lol) Elizabeth Jane And so on!
Jane is such a fresh name that rolls off of the tongue naturally. It has the potential of being any woman's name and it's the quality that makes the name lovely in my opinion. Especially since it's not heard of as often as a first name. I love it personally and think it should be used often, I would love to meet a baby Jane rather than a baby Abcde or baby Princess, long term wise we need to be considerate that these children need to pursue careers one day.
Why not something else? This bores me to death! You can be a Johanna (with an H sound) or something which is also a feminine form of John. Like, come on!
I have a friend who’s called plain Jane, pretty sad :(
― Anonymous User 6/4/2019
-10
Jane is a sweet name in my opinion, however I do find this name a little bit plain and old fashioned, but not bad. I would probably use it as a middle name though.
Mr. Jane Doe; better known as 'Soldier' was a self-titled war hero, fighting for the US army in the 40's, though not being employed by the US at all, but that didn't stop him from going on many nazi-killing rampages through WWII. He lived the rest of his days fighting in the mercenary conflict known as the 'Gravel Wars' throughout the late 60's and early 70's. I like this name.
― Anonymous User 4/5/2019
2
It's a very nice name [: Short and sweet, very pretty and classic. Although I can't help but think of Jane from Tarzan, lmao.
Not very famous, but George Washington had an older half-sister named Jane, named for her mother, although I believe she died as an infant before he was born.
― Anonymous User 1/20/2019
6
I love this name because of Jane Eyre. Honestly, parents nowadays HATE "common" names like Anne, Jane, and Sarah. Instead, they give their kids dumb names like Matysin and Reignbeaux. I'd honestly be surprised if I found a baby Jane nowadays.
EEW EEW EEW. So ugly and boring. This is my least favourite name next to Jayne.
― Anonymous User 11/23/2018
-26
Conventional and traditional.
― Anonymous User 10/13/2018
9
In 2018, 63 is the most common age for an American (U.S.) Jane who is registered female with the Social Security Administration. It is the 193rd most common female first name for living U.S. citizens.
― Anonymous User 10/8/2018
8
Jane is timeless and fresh for millennials. My husband and I named our youngest daughter Lexi-Jane and nothing could suit her more! Jane is classy but also modern, especially if you tack it on as a middle name. Ava-Jane, Haylie-Jane, Sara-Jane, Everly-Jane, Emma-Jane. Gorgeous! I adore the name Jane and it's perfect for a little rainbow baby like our Lexi-Jane. It means "gracious gift from God" and that's exactly what she is!
I find the name to be too simple and too boring. I prefer Janie.
― Anonymous User 9/6/2018
-9
It's funny how it's such a well known name but it is nowhere near the top 100 these days. Jane is very strong and gorgeous in it's simplicity. And since it is so uncommon now it would be unique to name your daughter Jane.
Surprisingly, I find this name pretty nice-sounding. It seems youthful and never dated. Even though it's way too short and simple for my liking, I find it much prettier than Joan.
I like this name a lot. It is my mom's name and it fits her well. I like how literary it is, what with the book Jane Eyre and the author Jane Austen. This is a name that I think will sound really classic and elegant in about ten or twenty years after it has been out of the top 50 or 100 for a while.
I had a gymnastics coach called Jane, she was very sweet, funny, kind and helpful and was like a sister figure to me for so many years. She also saved me from a potentially life threatening fall doing gymnastics. I think the name is adorable and lovely. I would definitely use it for my child.
― Anonymous User 4/4/2018
5
Jane Andrews is a character in Anne of Green Gables. She is one of Anne's friends.
Jane is the name of a speech synthesizer created by Acapela Group, now no longer produced I believe, it's American English. It's also the name of one of Eloquence's voices. Also American, as far as I can remember.
― Anonymous User 10/14/2017
3
It's maybe not the most original name in the world, but I like its classiness. I've always liked it and have a lot of good associations with it. Jane Seymour, Jane Grey, Jane Austen, Jane Bennet, Jane Eyre, Jane Marple... When I see or hear this name, I imagine a little, thin, agile, redhaired girl, with a pale, freckled, oblong face, green/grey eyes, it may also be a teenager, with a very sharp mind, very sensitive, maybe even overly sensitive soul, very creative, dreamy, rather shy and withdrawn or even a bit wild, a little sarcastic at times when with friends, quite nerdy and bookish, likes to observe the world, often literally drown in her inner world, with not the best health, she gets easily touched by things and people, in both positive and negative sense, she's very careful, cautious and worries too much, connected to nature, loves to write down her thoughts, or create some stories or poems. I can also easily imagine Jane as a woman, with quite similar qualities, I think she's always a bit of a child inside, with lively imagination, that even sometimes plays tricks on her, even though outside she can be pretty staid, practical and reasonable, she has a good sense of humour, is warm and dedicated to others and an attentive listener, but very, very sensitive and emotional, almost neurotic. It's really a great name, even if may be a bit overlooked, though I really don't like forms like Jayne or any other modern spellings.
Another famous bearer: Jane of Arc, a patron of prisoners, soldiers and saint of France (where she is known as Jeanne d'Arc). She was a 15th-century peasant girl who, after claiming she heard messages from God, was given leadership of the French army. She defeated the English in the battle of Orléans but was eventually captured and burned at the stake. Name day is celebrated on the 16th of May.Saint Jane Molla (Gianna Beretta Molla) - She has proven herself as a helper in difficulties during pregnancy, childbirth and marital problems. Many women have sought the power to say "yes" to conceived life. Name Day: 28th April.Saint Jane Frémiot de Chantal (Ioanna Francisca Frémiot de Chantal) - Patron of Salesians; Called for a happy childbirth Name Day: 12th of August.
Jane Colden was an American botanist, described as the "first botanist of her sex in her country" by Asa Gray in 1843. Although not acknowledged in botanical publications, she wrote a number of letters resulting in botanist John Ellis writing to Carl Linnaeus of her work applying the Linnaean system of plant identification to American flora, "she deserves to be celebrated". Contemporary scholarship maintains that she was the first female botanist working in America. She was regarded as a respected botanist by many prominent botanists such as: John Bartram, Peter Collinson, Alexander Garden, and Carl Linnaeus. Colden is most famous for her manuscript which remains titleless, in which she describes the flora of the New York area, and draws ink drawings of 340 different species of them.
Jane Fonda is an American actress, writer, political activist, former fashion model and fitness guru. She is a two-time Academy Award winner and two time BAFTA Award winner. In 2014, she was the recipient of the American Film Institute AFI Life Achievement Award.
Jane is such an endearing and alluring name. My younger sister's middle name is this and I've always been jealous of that. I much prefer Jane over my current middle name. I say current because I hope to change my middle name someday. (Fingers crossed).
― Anonymous User 2/23/2017
1
I think this name is a rather pretty name in its own way, but I'd prefer to use it as a middle name like Matilda Jane or Clarissa Jane. Those I think are possibly my favourite combos for Jane :)
Jane is one of my favorite names. I know it's generic, and there's things like "Jane Doe" and "Plain Jane", but I still really like it. My mother has Jayne as a middle name, and while I like it with a y (It's a very subtle difference, I don't think it can count as being "kriatyv", and has been around since at least 1917 as a given name and 1618 as a surname, so it can't be considered a modern spelling), I still prefer the spelling without the y as a given name, while I like Jayne with a y better as a surname. It's an old-fashioned name that still holds up just as well today as it always has. On another note, I think it goes great with the name Jill, maybe as siblings, as in "Jill & Jane".
Probably my all time favorite name, but that's because Jane has been used as a middle name in my family for nearly 200 years, since the 1830's. Simple, classic, elegant. Everyone can pronounce it -- everyone can spell it. 200 years from now people will giggle when they hear that little girls used to be named Paisley, Brooklyn, Nova, Bailey or whatever -- but you can bet there still will be little Janes around.
― Anonymous User 8/21/2016
1
Kind of a plain name and I'm not just saying that because the name Jane rhymes with plain, but I do prefer the other spellings like Jayne, Jayn, Jain and Jaine.
There are more songs written for 'Jane' than any other girls name. Bands include The Stones, Dylan, Nick Drake, T-Rex, Velvet Underground, Nick Cave, The Vines, Stereophonics, Frank Black, Rod Stewart to name a few. 72 at last count!
― Anonymous User 8/11/2015
11
This is my middle name, but I wish it was my first name. People seem to like it a lot better than my first name (MacKenna), and I like it, too. It has more room to add your own personality and it doesn't seem so trendy.
― Anonymous User 8/9/2015
6
In Brazilian Portuguese you can find: Jaíne (this is my name) I wrote it with "ííí" to make the pronunciation better, cause this translator isn't too good, but you can hear how it sounds: https://translate.google.com.br/#pt/en/ja%C3%AD%C3%AD%C3%ADne. I love my name, here in Brazil it is different.
Jane sounds like a friendly, eccentric lady who wears a long skirt and necklaces. Just my thoughts. That's not a bad thing though, I can see myself marrying a Jane.
― Anonymous User 3/31/2015
6
My mom's name is Jane, and my sister's name is Mary Jane. Awesome name! Classic, yet not overused nowadays.
The name Jane is a beautiful, sweet, pretty, charming, vintage name! ^_^ As a middle name, it's quite overused BUT as a forename name, it seems like it's dying! D: I love the name Jane. I adore the nickname Janie. ;D.
― Anonymous User 11/9/2014
3
I can't believe nobody has mentioned Jane from the sequal of Peter Pan "Return To Neverland". Jane was Wendy's daughter along with son Daniel. I personally love the name Jane, and Janie makes a lovely nickname! I would definitely use this name.
I really don't get why everyone is saying it's plain and overused. I've only met one Jane in my whole life, and she was born when the name was relatively unpopular. (mid nineties) I personally think this name is sweet and classic, and would be very refreshing to hear on a little girl. If you want plain and overused, look at all the Madison's and Isabella's running around today.
I seriously detest the name Jane. Out of all the names you could give your child, why choose a bland, boring name like Jane? If a name represents individuality, why give your child a boring name like Jane, a name that naturally disappears into the crowd? Sorry, but I think this name is just too plain and old-fashioned. There's even a saying called "plain Jane". Do you want your child to go through life as "plain"?
I adore this name. I do not find it plain and boring, I think it is simple, sophisticated, classic, and elegant. It's just perfect.
― Anonymous User 3/5/2013
10
My name is Sarah-Jane and I think Jane is nice as a middle name or joint name. I'm not sure if I would want to be just Jane on its own though because it feels a bit boring on its own. However, I highly recommend it as a middle/joint name and it works with nearly every name.
Have read in several other publications that "Jane" also means "gift from God". Jane is also the name of Wendy's daughter in Peter Pan, the return to Neverland. Often used as a middle or hyphenated name...e. g Mary-Jane. From the Spiderman comics / movies. Tarzan and Jane.
I don't think this name is plain at all, it's simple, but not boring! It would be so cute to see a little girl named Jane or Janie, I love that nickname!
― Anonymous User 1/11/2013
2
There are two actresses by the name of Jane Alexander. The first is an American actress (born 1939) who played Eleanor Roosevelt in the TV movie Eleanor and Franklin. The second is a British actress (born 1973) that works in Italy. She appeared in various Italian TV series and provided the voice for Elizabeth in the animated movie The Legend of the Titanic.
Jane Levy (born 1989 in Los Angeles, California) is an American actress.
― Anonymous User 5/31/2012
5
Jane Russell (born 1921 in Bemidji, Minnesota) was an American actress. She was one of Hollywood's leading sex symbols in the 40s and 50s.
― Anonymous User 5/31/2012
4
Jane Fonda (born 1937 in New York City) is an American actress.
― Anonymous User 5/31/2012
5
Really boring. Really generic. No, I'm not going to use the word "plain"! But if you name your daughter Jane, you might as well be naming her "Hey You."
Funny... they say Jane is "plain." I've yet to meet a Jane that is plain though. I've known 3 and they are all very pretty. My middle name is Jane. It's a nice middle name and sounds great with almost any last name. To the poor woman who commented that she hates her name "Jane" - you can always go by your middle name if you like it better since are so unhappy with "Jane". My first name was Jane and I used to like it but got so fed up seeing it on make up containers and magazine covers, having to listen to Plain Jane, Dick and Jane, Tarzan and Jane jokes and meeting men who would say, "Wow, I'm Tarzan!" I'm sure to them it was some ridiculous way of saying they found me attractive, but it made them look stupid. And my favorite? Seeing the use of Jane Doe on crime scene bodies on t.v. shows. I finally started going by my middle name of Catherine (Cate) for short and life has been wonderful for years with it. I legally changed it and I love it. I receive compliments on it from men - sans the jokes and I still have Jane but just in the middle now. Very happy with Cate in the front.
What is the fascination with Jane?! It's one of the most overused names in the world. Isn't everyone tired of it by now? And of couse everyone has heard "Sarah Jane, tall and plain". Well, I hate to say it, but it's true. Jane has become plain. It's lost all appeal (not that it ever appealed to me anyway).Sarah Jane, Mary Jane, Martha Jane... yada, yada, yada.
This name is very simple and old fashioned, but has a lot of personality to it. To me, it sounds like a girl who is very warm hearted, and is fond of cats and teddy bears, and likes to read and write. It's a very cosy sort of name.
A famous bearer of this name is Jane Foster also known as Jane Nelson, the human love interest of the marvel comic book superhero, Thor (based on the Norse god of thunder). In the Comics she was a nurse and later a doctor, in the 2011 film 'Thor' she is an astrophysicist, played by Israeli-American actress Natalie Portman.
It's simple, and I think it's really pretty in its simplicity! It's one of those names you can grow up with; unlike Ashley (when applied to a girl, anyway). It's sophisticated as well, a common name in days gone by for high class girls. It's such a pity that people see its simplicity and think "plain".
Oh, and I don't know if this girl counts as famous, but these days, being on TV makes you famous, so... America's Next Top Model's Jane Randall. She featured in Cycle 15 and received either third or fourth place, after she was eliminated in a double elimination. (Fade out from the episode suggests she should be given third.)
Really pretty name that I think should be used for first names as well as middle names. It always makes me think of purple tulips. Puts "Jade" to shame.
I like this name, but only because it was popular for 400 years and now is completely unpopular. It's almost in exile it's so unpopular. It was everywhere before, in every family. Plain Jane. See Jane run.Now that it has become un-trendy, it has more charm; especially since there are so many great famous bearers of the name.
It's also a surname. I can't see this name without thinking of "the Mentalist" where Jane is the main character, because of that it kind of ruins it as a girls name for me.
― Anonymous User 6/25/2010
-2
Jane Porter, from Edgar Rice Burrows "Tarzan and the Apes".
It's a nice name, and I don't think it's plain at all. It sounds free-spirited and natural to me, and while it may be a bit popular, it's still a good name for a girl.
Wow. I can't believe no-one has mentioned Jane Birkin. She was an English actor, singer, model and film director in the hippie-era and later. She is the mother of actor and singer Charlotte Gainsbourg who starred in Lars Von Trier's "Antichrist" and she was the inspiration for the "Birkin bag" from Hermès.
A famous bearer is English actress Jane Leeves (born April 18, 1961). She's best known for her role as Daphne Moon on the TV series "Frasier". She's also known as Audrey in "Murphy Brown" and Marla the Virgin in four episodes of "Seinfeld".
Much prettier than the anagram name, Jean, which is too old fashioned. Jane suits girls and women of all ages.
― Anonymous User 10/7/2009
1
I plan on naming a future daughter of mine Jane. Not only because Jane Austen is my favorite author of all time, and Jane Bennet (from Pride and Prejudice) is my favorite fictional character, but because I think it is a beautiful, simple, and timeless name. =)
I like the name Jane. It's not too long, and it's beautifully simple and classic. It's much better than some of the things people are naming kids these days. I think it would be a great middle name with a longer first name, like Alexandra, or I even really like Oriana Jane.
I love the name Jane! It's short and sweet and not boring at all since you don't see very many Janes, not to mention the reference to Jane Eyre is really awesome since she was such a strong woman! I'd definitely name my daughter Jane.
Famous bearer Jane Austen was English novelist famed for her books "Pride & Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility", along with 4 other works.
― Anonymous User 1/26/2009
7
I think Jane is a timeless classic. It works well for girls and women of any age, and it wouldn't be misspelled or mispronounced often.
― Anonymous User 11/25/2008
2
Not really famous. But in Stephenie Meyer's vampire saga (Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn) Jane is a young vampire that belongs to the Volturi. She can use her mind to inflict pain on others.
There's a song by Braking Benjamin called 'Diary Of Jane'.
― Anonymous User 10/2/2008
5
If you are to use this name, consider putting it in a combination name like Sophia-Jane, Jane-Lenore, etc. as it's rather plain and unimaginative on its own.
This is one of those names to me that began to be used less and less that it sounds quite fresh today. I don't get the whole "Plain Jane" thing, because in today's age, I think a Jane would be a girl who wouldn't reflect an image on her name alone. Jane could be anybody. If one is going to use the name Jane, however, I would suggest using it with a longer middle name. Jane Alexandra, Jane Elizabeth, even Jane Imogene sounds cool.
My mother's name is Jane. The plain association kinda suits her, but I think the person makes the name. Jane can either be plain or mysterious I think. Marie is a good middle name for Jane I think.
― Anonymous User 7/11/2008
4
In the Dark is Rising series by Susan Cooper, one of the three main characters from the first book, Under Sea and Over Stone, is Jane, she is the sister of Simon and Barney.
Jane is my middle name, I'm Sonya Jane. I know a lot of people with this as a middle name, I have friends with it (Alissa Jane, Samantha Jayne) and I have cousins with it (Amanda Jane, Belinda Jane). I love it and would consider it for my daughter in the future.
― Anonymous User 4/26/2008
3
It's a safe choice, as the name sounds good on both children and women. It's short and simple, and the kid will not be bullied because of her name. On the other hand, the name is quite dull and unimaginative to use. However, to me, it has positive associations because of the cool character Jane Lane from Daria, the cool series from the 90s.
A famous bearer is American actress Jane Krakowski (born October 11, 1968). She is best known to audiences for her television roles, as T. R. Kendall on "Search for Tomorrow" from 1984 to 1986, for which she received a Daytime Emmy Award nomination in 1987, Elaine Vassal on "Ally McBeal" from 1997 to 2002, for whcih she received a Golden Globe Award nomination in 1999, and Jenna Maroney on "30 Rock" since 2006. She is also known for her stage roles, specifically Broadway roles in "Grand Hotel", for which she won a Tony Award nomination, "Company", "Once Upon a Mattress", and "Nine", for which she won a Tony Award. She also starred in a revival of "Guys and Dolls" on the West End, for which she won an Olivier Award.
I love this name, I think it's adorable. A friend of mine is called Jane and we call her Janie. A famous bearer is Jane Turnkey from the slightly crazy children's show, Jane and the Dragon.
― Anonymous User 12/1/2007
1
I find Jane quite boring. My name is spelled Jayne, and most people can't spell it! Jayne has done nothing for me. Sure I was not teased, but I always wanted to be named Lauren, or Heather, something more popular. I used to go by Jaynie, but I consider Jaynie too cutesy. I now go by Jenny, which sounds sweet, but mature at the same time. I would advise parents to use Jane as a middle name. Jayne is too plain as a first name, but it is a nice middle name. I think Emma Jayne, Emily Jayne, and many other names go nicely as a combo.
I think it is a fabulous middle name, though I prefer the more modern "Jayne" spelling. I know that I'll probably get attacked for saying that on this board, but I think it spices it up a bit and takes away from the whole "plain Jane" thing.
My sister's name is Jane, so is my aunt, my great aunt, and many distant cousins. Although some say it is plain. I think not! It is simple yes but when paired with a interesting middle or first name it is quite lovely.
Jane is my middle name and growing up I hated this name but now I actually quite like it. It complements my first name, Rachael.I've known a Amanda Jane (still hates her middle name) and a Kara Jayne (she's indifferent to her middle name). I've only known one person whose first name was Jane and she was a bright, fun, bubbly outgoing kinda girl - definitely not plain!
Actress Jane Asher. Sister of musician Peter Asher and former fiancee of Beatle Paul McCartney.
― Anonymous User 5/19/2007
5
I think it can be a bit plain by itself, but if you pair it up with something more unique it looks good.
― Anonymous User 5/19/2007
-1
To me, this name is kind of plain even though it is not that popular. However, I think it is also pretty, but I think it is starting to be a common middle name for girls and would certainly be nice if it was used as a FIRST name for girls again.
It is plain, but in a good way. It's very normal, but not in a bad way. It's just nice. Jane. Jane. Jane. It's perfect! The name says, "This person is quiet, elegant, beautiful, mysterious, and actually rather dark." It's perfect!Plus. There is a song by Breaking Benjamin called "The Diary of Jane," and it is one of my all-time favorite songs. It's perfect!
"Whatever Happened To Baby Jane" with Bette Davis playing Baby Jane Hudson.
― Anonymous User 3/15/2007
1
I love this name. It's not plain or boring, as some people think, but classic, elegant, intellectual, and perhaps dark. It's perfectly lovely. The only difficulty is in finding a good middle name for it.
This is the name of the youngest girl in E. Nesbit's children's story, "Five Children and It."
― Anonymous User 2/6/2007
6
I love the name Jane! It is probably one of my most favorite names. It may seem "plain" to some people, but it is a classic name unlike some new names that parents just make up nowadays.
― Anonymous User 2/2/2007
1
Jane is a very pretty name. It's short, simple, and not too girly, but definitely feminime, unlike the ugly Madisons, Chelseas, and Emmas (I can't stand the name Emma!)
Jane is my absolute FAVORITE name - I think its apparent "plainness" distinguishes it gloriously from the sea of Madisons, Jaydens, and Nevaehs that dominate today's naming trends. Jane Bennet is also rather appealing. =D
Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist famous for her work with chimpanzees. The Jane Goodall institute works for chimp conservation. I love this name. It's just gorgeous, not at all plain!
I love this name, it's not too long, and it's easy to pronounce.
― Anonymous User 8/16/2006
1
The only reason people think "plain" when they hear it is because it rhymes with Jane. A gorgeous, classic name that is fabulous and versatile. Lovely!
Some famous actresses named Jane: Jane Kaczmarek, the mother, Lois, on "Malcolm in the Middle;" Jane "Hanoi Jane" Fonda, recently seen in "Monster-in-Law;" Jane Wyman, the ex-wife of Ronald Reagan who starred in "Falcon Crest;" and the riotously funny Jane Curtain who starred in "Saturday Night Live" and also played Dr. Mary Albright in "3rd Rock from the Sun."
The name Jane is said to mean "A gracious gift from God".
― Anonymous User 5/17/2006
4
I am not too fond of this name, it's a bit plain to me.
― Anonymous User 4/25/2006
-1
This is my second middle name (the one I use when I feel like alternating). People always tell me that it's too plain, but that's why I like it. I don't like Jayne, Jaine or any of those trying-to-be-creative-but-can't spellings; Jane is just fine.
I love the rock/folk/metal band Jane's Addiction, their best song being "Jane Says", and the song "Sweet Jane" by The Velvet Underground. There are lots and lots of other songs with Jane in the title, such as "Lady Jane" by The Rolling Stones, "Jane" by The Barenaked Ladies, "Baby Jane" by Rod Stewart, "Queen Jane Approximately" by Bob Dylan, "Song That Jane Likes" by the Dave Matthews Band, "Jane" by Jefferson Starship, "Hazey Jane" by Nick Drake, "Jane" by Stevie Nicks, "Sweet Baby Jane" by U2, "Crazy Jane on God" by Van Morrison, and then there's the album "Songs About Jane" by Maroon 5.
I cannot believe no one has mentioned Miss Jane Marple, my favorite of Agatha Christie's detectives. Miss Marple was an old English lady with an eye for mystery. One of the most brilliant fictional characters ever.
I read that the name Janay means God has answered in Hebrew.
― Anonymous User 2/26/2006
2
Jane has a very beautiful, clear sound to it. I do not think of "plain" at all, but a dark sort of elegance.
― Anonymous User 1/23/2006
12
I like the name Jane. It may be plain to some people but it is very pretty. I always think of Miss Jane Bennett out of Pride and Prejudice. In New Zealand where I live it is not a common name anymore.
― Anonymous User 1/13/2006
10
Dick and Jane are the children of the beginning reader book series.
The children's book character Hermione Granger's second name was originally Jane, but the author changed it because it was also the second name of Dolores Umbridge.Honestly, I think that it was immature and ridiculous of the writer.