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Joseph

The name Joseph originates from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning 'he will add' or 'God will multiply.' This name is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition, most notably associated with Joseph, the son of Jacob, who became a prominent advisor in Egypt. Its widespread use across cultures highlights its religious significance and timeless appeal.

IPA: /ˈdʒoʊzəf/ · Simplified: JOH-zef

Male
Hebrew
Biblical
Middle East
classic
strong
reliable
traditional

70/100

Popularity

Falling

10-Year Trend

10

Countries

2015

Peak Year

Meaning of Joseph

Etymology, origin story, and cultural significance.

The name Joseph originates from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning 'he will add' or 'God will multiply.' This name is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition, most notably associated with Joseph, the son of Jacob, who became a prominent advisor in Egypt. Its widespread use across cultures highlights its religious significance and timeless appeal.

Does Joseph flow with your last name? — Run the surname compatibility check

How to pronounce Joseph

IPA notation and a simplified pronunciation guide.

IPA: /ˈdʒoʊzəf/ · Simplified: JOH-zef

Nicknames for Joseph

Common diminutives and short forms used in everyday life.

Joe
Joey
Jos
Joss

Joseph name popularity

Popularity score over the last 10 years and countries where this name is popular.

20152016201720182019202020212022202320240255075100

Popular in Countries

Top countries where this name is most common.

60

United States

60

Israel

58

Canada

55

United Kingdom

53

Australia

50

Ireland

45

France

43

Italy

42

Spain

40

Poland

International Forms

How this name appears across different languages and cultures.

Yosef

Giuseppe

Jose

Josef

Jozef

Yusuf

Names like Joseph

Names with a similar feel you might also like.

Collections featuring Joseph

Curated name lists where this name appears

Personality

Traits and perception commonly associated with this name.

Joseph is often associated with leadership and wisdom, reflecting its biblical roots. Those named Joseph may exude reliability and strength, and often display a strong sense of responsibility and a pragmatic demeanor.

Name Day

Traditional celebration date for this name.

March 19

Famous people named Joseph

Well-known figures who share this name.

J

Joseph Stalin

Leader of the Soviet Union (1878-1953)

J

Joseph Gordon-Levitt

American actor and filmmaker (born 1981)

Frequently asked questions about Joseph

Quick answers on meaning, gender, popularity, and nicknames.

What does Joseph mean?
Here is the meaning behind Joseph: The name Joseph originates from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning 'he will add' or 'God will multiply.' This name is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition, most notably associated with Joseph, the son of Jacob, who became a prominent advisor in Egypt. Its widespread use across cultures highlights its religious significance and timeless appeal.
Is Joseph a boy or girl name?
Joseph is traditionally a boy's name, though naming customs vary between cultures and families.
How popular is Joseph?
Joseph scores 70/100 on Namelia's popularity index, with a peak around 2015.
What are good nicknames for Joseph?
Popular nicknames for Joseph: Joe, Joey, Jos, Joss.
What names are similar to Joseph?
Names similar to Joseph: Jacob, Joshua, James, Jonathan — close in sound, origin, or style.

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