Comprehensive Guide on the Name “Jolene”

Origin and Historical Background

Jolene is a modern name that gained popularity in the United States in the mid-20th century. The name is believed to be a blend of the names “Jo” and “Marlene,” or possibly a variation of “Joan.” Its rise in popularity can be partly attributed to the famous song “Jolene” by Dolly Parton, released in 1973, which has cemented the name in popular culture. The song’s emotional depth and haunting melody have associated the name Jolene with a sense of poignancy and beauty.

Meaning and Cultural Significance

Jolene means “pretty,” signifying attractiveness and appeal. The name carries connotations of being striking, sharp, and adorable, encapsulating a sense of grace and charm. In cultural terms, Jolene has a distinct American vibe due to its prominence in popular music and media. It evokes images of someone who is not only outwardly pretty but also has a captivating and appealing personality.

Famous Historical Figures with the Name Jolene

1. Jolene Blalock

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Jolene Blalock is an American actress best known for her role as Vulcan first officer T’Pol on Star Trek: Enterprise.
• Cultural Impact: Blalock’s portrayal of T’Pol brought her significant recognition in the science fiction community, and she remains a beloved figure among Star Trek fans. Her work has contributed to the broader representation of strong, intelligent female characters in media.

2. Jolene Anderson

• Historical Era: Contemporary
• Key Contributions: Jolene Anderson is an Australian actress and singer, widely known for her role as Erica Templeton on the medical drama series All Saints.
• Cultural Impact: Her role in All Saints made her a household name in Australia, and she has continued to work in various television and stage productions, garnering acclaim for her versatile acting skills.

Usage Over Time

The name Jolene saw a spike in popularity following the release of Dolly Parton’s song in 1973. According to data from the U.S. Social Security Administration, Jolene reached its peak popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. It has seen fluctuating usage over the years but has generally retained a sense of classic charm and nostalgia. Jolene remains a timeless choice for parents seeking a name that resonates with beauty and cultural significance.

Pronunciation Guide

The name Jolene is pronounced “Joh-leen.”

The phonetic spelling breaks down as follows:

• “Joh” – with the “o” as in “go.”
• “Leen” – similar to the word “lean.”

Biblical Context

Jolene does not have direct biblical references or significance and is not found in the Bible. However, those valuing biblical names often look for names with meaningful and virtuous qualities, and Jolene’s meaning of “pretty” can be associated with beauty and grace, which are celebrated in many biblical contexts.

Additional Unique Information

Numerology

In numerology, the name Jolene corresponds to the number 5, which symbolizes freedom, adaptability, and adventure. People with this number are often dynamic and versatile.

Variations

Some common variations of Jolene include Jolena, Jolina, and Joelle.

Cultural Variants

Across different cultures, the name may appear with slight variations in spelling or pronunciation but generally maintains its core attributes.

Popularity Information

Jolene saw a notable increase in popularity in the 1970s following the release of Dolly Parton’s song. It was among the top 1000 names for baby girls in the U.S. during that decade. In more recent years, Jolene has maintained a stable level of popularity, making occasional appearances in the top 1000 names list.

Conclusion

Jolene is a beautiful, classic name that carries a rich cultural history and a sense of enduring elegance. With its straightforward meaning of “pretty,” it is a name that parents can choose with confidence, knowing it conveys both outer beauty and a captivating charm. Perfect for a little girl who is bound to leave an impression, Jolene is a timeless choice.

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