Joseph
Joseph is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning “God will add”, pronounced JOH-zuf. It ranked #29 in the United States in 2025, given to 7,303 babies, and peaked at #5 in 1912. Common nicknames: Joe, Joey, Jo.
How popular is Joseph in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Joseph mean, and where does it come from?
Joseph comes from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning "he will add" or "God shall add." In the Old Testament, Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob and Rachel, known for his coat of many colors and his rise to power in Egypt. In the New Testament, Joseph was the husband of Mary and the earthly father of Jesus. The name has been enormously popular across Christian, Jewish, and Muslim traditions for centuries. It consistently ranks among the top boy names in numerous countries, admired for its warmth, reliability, and deep spiritual resonance.
How is Joseph used around the world?
Joseph is used in 5 languages worldwide, with 41+ international variants.
Female FormJosephin
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Joseph?
Famous People Named Joseph
- Joseph Haydn — Austrian classical composer
- Joseph Conrad — Polish-British novelist
- Joseph Biden — 46th President of the United States
Similar Names to Joseph
If you like Joseph, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Joseph
Looking for names that pair well with Joseph? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Joseph mean?
Joseph is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning "God will add." Joseph comes from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning "he will add" or "God shall add." In the Old Testament, Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob and Rachel, known for his coat of many colors and his rise to power in Egypt.
How do you pronounce Joseph?
Joseph is pronounced JOH-zuf. Common variations include Josef, Giuseppe, Jose.
Is Joseph a boy name?
Yes, Joseph is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Joe, Joey, Jo, Joss.