All about the name

Jo

Male

« The name Jo is a short form of the male given name Joseph, which is derived from the Hebrew name Yosef. It means "God will increase" and has been used since biblical times. »

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Meaning, origin, history

The name Jo is a short form of the male given name Joseph, which is derived from the Hebrew name Yosef. This name has been in use since biblical times and means "God will increase," or "he will add." It is believed to have originated from the story of Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob in the Old Testament. Throughout history, the name Jo has been used by many notable figures. One of the most famous bearers of this name was the American jazz singer and pianist Joe "King" Oliver, who was a key figure in the development of jazz music in the early 20th century. Another notable bearer of this name was British author and poet Joseph Conrad, whose works include such classics as Heart of Darkness and Lord Jim. In many cultures, Jo is considered to be a strong and masculine name, often associated with leadership and courage. However, it has also been used as a unisex name in recent years, reflecting the trend towards more gender-neutral naming choices. Regardless of its use as a male or female name, Jo remains a classic choice that has stood the test of time. Overall, the name Jo is a short and simple name with a long history and meaningful meaning. It has been used by many notable figures throughout history and continues to be a popular choice for parents looking for a strong and timeless name for their child. Whether you're drawn to its biblical origins or simply appreciate its classic sound, Jo is a name that is sure to make an impression.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Jo since 1880

Total births
1,835
Total since 1880
Peak year
1960
40 births
in 2023
9
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+5%
vs previous 5 years