The boy's name Joseph \j(o)-se-ph\ is pronounced JOH-sef. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "Jehovah increases". Biblical: the son of Jacob who, sold by his brothers into slavery, rose to become a supreme power in Egypt. Also Jesus' earthly father, a carpenter. José (see Jose) (hoh-ZAY) is a Spanish form. See also Joe. Actors Josef Sommer, Joseph Fiennes; writers Joseph Conrad, Joseph Wambaugh; revolutionary Che Guevara; painter Joseph M. W. Turner.

ORIGIN
Hebrew

MEANING
God will increase

A biblical name. Mentioned in the Old Testament as the twelfth son of Jacob who was sold by his brothers into slavery. In the New Testament, the name of Jesus' earthly father. Also the name of the rich Jew, Joseph of Armathea, who took Jesus down from the cross, wrapped him in a shroud, and buried him in a rock tomb. Has dropped out of the top 15 only twice during the past 125 years.

VARIATIONS
Josepha Josephine

ALTERNATIVES
Josef Josephe

NICKNAMES
Joe Joey

FAMOUS Josephs
Joseph Lieberman (politician) Joseph Mullen (Hockey Hall of Famer) Joseph Hughes "Jacques" Laperriere (Hockey Hall of Famer) Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI) Joseph Fiennes (actor) Joseph Ratelle (Hockey Hall of Famer)

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