Yiannis (or Yannis) is a Greek name derived from the Hebrew name "John", meaning "God is gracious". It is pronounced as "Yee-ah-niss" or "Yee-ah-nees". The name has become popular in recent years, due to the rise of Greek culture in Europe. It is also used as a given name for men and women alike. Yiannis can be shortened to Yanni, and it can also be spelled as Giannis or Giannakis.