Joseph
Joseph first appears in US records in 1880. It peaked in 1956, when 32,749 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 7,303.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Joseph popular?
Declining Joseph is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1956 peak.
| 2020s | 46,334 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 115,722 | |
| 2000s | 194,962 | |
| 1990s | 260,751 | |
| 1980s | 299,411 | |
| 1970s | 244,825 | |
| 1960s | 283,048 | |
| 1950s | 300,012 | |
| 1940s | 230,285 | |
| 1930s | 180,566 | |
| 1920s | 243,809 | |
| 1910s | 179,300 | |
| 1900s | 35,173 | |
| 1890s | 29,000 | |
| 1880s | 26,292 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Joseph mean?
Joseph comes from the Hebrew Yosef, “he will add” or “God will increase.” It is borne by Joseph of the coat of many colours and by St Joseph, husband of Mary.
Nicknames for Joseph
- Joe
- Joey
- Jos
Variants & spellings
- Josef
- José
- Giuseppe
Names like Joseph
Hebrew names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Joseph
Popular Hebrew names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Joseph
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Joseph mean?
Joseph means God shall add. Joseph comes from the Hebrew Yosef, “he will add” or “God will increase.” It is borne by Joseph of the coat of many colours and by St Joseph, husband of Mary.
What is the origin of the name Joseph?
Joseph is of Hebrew origin.
How do you pronounce Joseph?
Joseph is pronounced “JOH-zef.”
Is Joseph a boy or a girl name?
Joseph is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Joseph a popular name right now?
Joseph is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 1956 peak.
How popular is the name Joseph?
In 2025, Joseph ranked #29 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Joseph most popular?
Joseph was most popular in 1956, when about 32,749 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What are common nicknames for Joseph?
Common nicknames for Joseph include Joe, Joey, Jos.
What names are similar to Joseph?
Names similar to Joseph include Benjamin, Samuel, Isaac, Levi.
What names go well with Joseph?
Hebrew names that pair well with Joseph include James, Michael, John, David, Mary.