“A diminutive of 'Josefa', the feminine form of 'Joseph', meaning 'God will add'.”
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 24% boys♀ 76% girls
#2427US 2023
74Births / yr
↓Falling
3.7kAll-time births
📅 Since 191500
How to pronounce josey
JOH·zee
/ˈdʒoʊ.ziː/ · stress on JOH · 2 syllables
“A diminutive of 'Josefa', the feminine form of 'Joseph', meaning 'God will add'.”
American origin · Unisex name
What does josey mean and where does it come from?
'Josey' is a modern, whimsical version of 'Josephine' or 'Josefa'. It has become popular in the United States as a playful and approachable name. While it has deep roots in Spanish-speaking countries, it is also well-received in English-speaking cultures. It offers a modern take on traditional names
Cultural significance
josey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a diminutive of 'josefa', the feminine form of 'joseph', meaning 'god will add'..
Peak popularity
Reached #1777 in 1998 — currently #2427 in the US.
Falling — down 229 spots — currently #2427 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#2427 · Top 1.8%
1920
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#2427
74
▼ down 229 · -14% births
2022
#2198
86
▼ down 60 · -2% births
2021
#2138
88
▲ up 25 · +6% births
2020
#2163
83
▲ up 241 · +9% births
2015
#2404
76
▼ down 309 · -19% births
2010
#2095
94
▼ down 80 · +1% births
2005
#2015
93
▼ down 224 · -4% births
2000
#1791
97
▲ up 77 · +29% births
1995
#1868
75
▲ up 743 · +67% births
1990
#2611
45
▲ up 3132 · +275% births
1985
#5743
12
▼ down 1555 · -33% births
1980
#4188
18
▲ up 1902 · +100% births
1975
#6090
9
▲ up 1165 · +50% births
1970
#7255
6
▼ down 2499
1920
#4756
6
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for josey
2000Rank #1791
97
#3409
↗Rising
1915 - 202316 years
The story of josey
josey entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 3,740 total births recorded, josey remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4804 in 1915 to #2427 in 2023. josey is used for both genders: 76% female and 24% male.
josey means "A diminutive of 'Josefa', the feminine form of 'Joseph', meaning 'God will add'." — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name josey?
josey is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of josey?
josey originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name josey?
josey is a two-syllable name pronounced JH OW1 Z IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is josey a common or rare name?
josey is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with josey
For a sister
josey & Avery♡
josey & Madison♡
josey & Zoey♡
josey & Madelyn♡
For a brother
josey & Ethan♡
josey & Mason♡
josey & Matthew♡
josey & Madison♡
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