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Jahan
Pronounced jə-HAHN /dʒəˈhɑn/High
Meaning: World, universe; from Persian jahan, famous from the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, 'King of the World'High
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Jahan is the Persian word for 'world', a favorite element of Persianate royal style — Shah Jahan ('King of the World') above all, with princesses Jahanara and conquerors Jahangir ('world-seizer') in the family album. The word names worlds across Iran, South Asia, and the Persian-influenced sphere.
As an American given name it is rare, used in Iranian, South Asian, and Black American families — its sound sliding comfortably near John and Jovan. Few names offer this much scope per letter.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Shah Jahan (1592-1666)Mughal emperor who commissioned the Taj Mahal
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Jahan mean?
Jahan is Persian for 'world' or 'universe', famous from the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, 'King of the World'.
How do you pronounce Jahan?
It's said jə-HAHN /dʒəˈhɑn/ — two syllables, stress on the second.
Is Jahan a boy or girl name?
Jahan is mainly a boy's name; Jahanara is a classic feminine compound.
How popular is Jahan?
Jahan is a rare name in the U.S.