Janessa

Janessa is a modern English elaboration of Jane, itself the feminine form of John, which derives from the Hebrew Yohanan meaning God is gracious. The name appears to have emerged in the twentieth century, likely formed by adding the popular suffix -essa to Jan or Jane, following a broader trend of creating melodic feminine variants. Related forms include Vanessa, Janessa's likely stylistic influence, as well as Jane, Janet, Janice, and Janelle.