All about the name

Jozephine

Female

« Josephine is a French-origin feminine name derived from Josephus, meaning "God shall increase. »

#52085 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Josephine is a name of French origin, derived from the Latin word "Josephus," which means "God shall increase." It is a feminine form of Joseph, a biblical name that has been popular throughout history. The name Josephine was first introduced in France during the Middle Ages and gained popularity among royal families. One notable bearer of the name was Joséphine de Beauharnais (1763-1814), an aristocratic woman who became the first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military leader and emperor. Their marriage lasted from 1796 until their divorce in 1809, during which Josephine played a significant role in Napoleonic society and politics. In literature, Josephine has been used as a character name by various authors, contributing to its enduring appeal. The most famous example is likely the novel "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell, where one of the main characters is named Josephine, known affectionately as "Josie." Throughout history, Josephine has been associated with elegance, sophistication, and a touch of French charm. Despite not being particularly common today, it remains a timeless and classic name choice for parents seeking something unique yet familiar for their daughters. In summary, Josephine is a name of French origin with a rich historical background, tracing back to its biblical roots. It gained popularity through notable figures like Joséphine de Beauharnais and has been featured in various works of literature over time.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Jozephine since 1880

Total births
11
Total since 1880
Peak year
2008
6 births
in 2010
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0% →
vs previous 5 years