IPA Pronunciation

/ˈdʒeɪ.nəs/

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Syllables

Janus is derived from the Latin word 'ianua' meaning 'door' or 'gate.' In Roman mythology, Janus is the two-faced god who symbolizes transitions, beginnings, endings, and duality. His two faces look to the future and the past, representing change and passage from one state to another, often invoked at the start of the new year.

Cultural Significance of Janus

In Roman culture, Janus was uniquely significant as the god of doorways, gates, and transitions, presiding over beginnings and endings. Temples dedicated to Janus had doors open in times of war and closed in peace, symbolizing the state of the Roman world. His symbolism extends to temporal and spatial transitions, often linked with new years and major life changes.

Janus Name Popularity in 2025

Today, the name Janus is uncommon but appreciated for its classical roots and mythological significance. It appeals to parents seeking a name with deep symbolic meaning related to transitions and duality. While rarely found in popular baby name charts, Janus is used in various cultures and often chosen for its uniqueness and strong historical resonance.

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Popular Nicknames10

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International Variations12

Name Energy & Essence

The name Janus carries the essence of “God of beginnings, gates, transitions, and duality” from Latin tradition. Names beginning with "J" often embody qualities of justice, optimism, and leadership.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

In Roman culture, Janus was uniquely significant as the god of doorways, gates, and transitions, presiding over beginnings and endings. Temples dedicated to Janus had doors open in times of war and closed in peace, symbolizing the state of the Roman world. His symbolism extends to temporal and spatial transitions, often linked with new years and major life changes.

Janus of Cyprus

King of Cyprus who ruled during the late 14th and early 15th centuries, notable for his role in Mediterranean politics.

Janus Pannonius

A Hungarian Latin poet and diplomat of the Renaissance, known for his humanist works and influence on Hungarian literature.

Janus Dousa

A Dutch nobleman, poet, and historian who contributed significantly to Dutch Renaissance literature and politics.

Jano

🌐Spanish

Janus

🌐French

Janus

🌐German

Giano

🌐Italian

ヤヌス (Yanusu)

🌐Japanese

雅努斯 (Yǎnǔsī)

🌐Chinese

يانوس

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Janus

Janus is the only Roman god depicted with two faces, symbolizing his ability to look both forward and backward simultaneously.

Personality Traits for Janus

Individuals named Janus are often seen as insightful and adaptable, with a natural ability to see multiple perspectives. They tend to be thoughtful, reflective, and open to change, embodying the dual nature of their namesake. Janus personalities may have a calm demeanor, balanced between optimism about the future and respect for the past.

What does the name Janus mean?

Janus is a Latin name meaning “God of beginnings, gates, transitions, and duality”. Janus is derived from the Latin word 'ianua' meaning 'door' or 'gate.' In Roman mythology, Janus is the two-faced god who symbolizes transitions, beginnings, endings, and duality. His two faces look to the future and the past, representing change and passage from one state to another, often invoked at the start of the new year.

How do you pronounce Janus?

Janus is pronounced (IPA: /ˈdʒeɪ.nəs/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Janus?

Popular nicknames for Janus include: Jan, Jani, Jay, Janey, Nus, Jano, Janny, Janjo, Jas, Jase.

Who are famous people named Janus?

Famous people named Janus include: , , , Janus Friis, Janus Metz Pedersen.

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Janus is a beautiful Latin name meaning “God of beginnings, gates, transitions, and duality”. Janus is derived from the Latin word 'ianua' meaning 'door' or 'gate.' In Roman mythology, Janus is the two-faced god who symbolizes transitions, beginnings, endings, and duality. His two faces look t...

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