About the name Zhana / Jeanne
Etymology & meaning
Zhana is the Bulgarian form of the French Jeanne — the feminine of Jean, which through the Latin Iohannes leads back to the Hebrew Yohanan, "God is gracious". The derivatives Zhanet, Zhaneta and Zhanina live alongside it.
History & patron saint
As the French sister of Yoana, Zhana celebrates on Ivanovden (7 January) — the memory of Saint John the Baptist. World history also knows Joan of Arc, whose name is the same; the Orthodox calendar, however, keeps Zhana through the John family.
Traditions & customs
The feast passes with sprinkling for health and uninvited guests; celebrants offer homemade sweets. The day is also one of reconciliation — an old Ivanovden custom that applies to the whole family of names.
Popularity & notable bearers
Zhana is a familiar Bulgarian name that peaked in the 1960s and 70s — chosen by families after a European sound on a biblical base.