Jadis

Meaning of Jadis

Jadis derives from a French term meaning “formerly” or “of old,” yet as a personal name it entered the cultural consciousness through C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia, where it denotes the White Witch. It functions as a unisex name, offering an austere elegance that appeals to those seeking a gender-neutral choice with a literary pedigree. Pronounced JAY-dis (/ˈdʒeɪ.dɪs/), it remains exceptionally rare in the United States, peaking at number 885 in 1999 with six recorded births and maintaining a consistent presence in the lower 900s since the turn of the millennium—most recently ranking 944 with six occurrences in 2024. This enduring scarcity underscores its distinctive appeal, providing parents with an unconventional option that sidesteps mainstream naming currents. Though it carries echoes of a notorious antagonist, Jadis’s quiet rarity may offer a cool, composed counterpoint in any generation.

Pronunciation

English

  • Pronunced as JAY-dis (/ˈdʒeɪ.dɪs/)

U.S. Popularity Chart

Diana Michelle Redwood
Curated byDiana Michelle Redwood

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