Josephine: meaning and origin

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Josephine

“God will add; the feminine of Joseph”

Gender
👧 Girl
Origin
✡️ Hebrew
Letters · syllables
9 · 3
Starts with
J

Popular nowClassic

About the name Josephine

Josephine is a girl’s name from the Hebrew tradition. Its meaning is “god will add; the feminine of Joseph”. Names from Hebrew, many of them from the Bible. They have been used in English for centuries — from Hannah and Sarah to Noah, Elijah and Levi.

It’s a classic: a name that has been used for generations and still feels fresh.

Tips before you choose

  • Say the full name out loud with your last name, and with any middle name.
  • Check the initials — and what they spell.
  • Think about nicknames kids might make from it.
  • Write it down: is the spelling easy for teachers and friends?

More Hebrew names

Sibling name ideas (Hebrew, boys)

More girl names starting with J

Questions and answers

What does the name Josephine mean?

Josephine is a name of Hebrew origin. It means: god will add; the feminine of Joseph.

Is Josephine a boy or girl name?

Josephine is usually given to girls.

How many syllables does Josephine have?

Josephine has 9 letters and about 3 syllables.

Is Josephine a popular name?

Yes. Josephine has been near the top of US baby-name lists in recent years. Names marked “popular now” have been near the top of US baby-name lists in recent years. This is an approximate guide, not an official ranking; see the Social Security Administration’s baby names site for official counts.