35 Variations of Joseph

Grandpa Joe's namesakes can take many forms, as the baby names here demonstrate.
  1. Joseph
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      Joseph is one of the most classic names in American nomenclature, popular with parents from many ethnic backgrounds and having dual-religious appeal.
  2. Yousef
    • Origin:

      Persian variation of Yusuf, Arabic
    • Meaning:

      "God increases"
    • Description:

      While Yusuf is the more popular Arabic form of Joseph, Yousef is the Persian variant and is sometimes used as an Arabic transcription. Currently in the Top 500 in the UK and the Top 1000 in the US, it is still a familiar choice.
  3. Josef
    • Origin:

      German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
  4. Josef
    • Origin:

      German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
  5. Josef
    • Origin:

      German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
  6. Josef
    • Origin:

      German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
  7. Josef
    • Origin:

      German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
  8. Josef
    • Origin:

      German, Scandinavian, Czech variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      The German, Scandinavian and Czech variant of Joseph, borne by several notable European artists and athletes, as well as the brutal Soviet dictator Josef (or Iosif) Stalin.
  9. Jo
    • Origin:

      Short form of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      Jo is usually the feminine form of the name, while Joe is the masculine spelling.
  10. Giuseppe
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      This form of Joseph is an enduring classic in Italy where it remains in the Top 20. In the States it's been hovering under the radar for decades, but its spirited, distinctive-yet-familiar sounds might help it catch on, as Giovanni has
  11. Pino
    • Origin:

      Italian, diminutive of names such as Giuseppino
    • Description:

      There are many more substantial Italian choices.
  12. Pepe
    • Origin:

      Spanish variation of JosÉ
    • Description:

      Le Pew. We don't think so, although it's a megacommon nickname name in Latino countries.
  13. Yusuf
    • Origin:

      Arabic variation of Joseph, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      Yusuf is the Arabic form of Joseph, used in the Middle East, as well as internationally from France and the US, to the UK, Turkey and Azerbaijan - where, as of 2023, it ranked in the Top 100.
  14. Yosef
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "Jehovah increases"
    • Description:

      A widely used Hebrew form of Joseph, with a sophisticated and continental air.
  15. Iòseph
    • Description:

      Iòseph is a distinctive variant of Joseph, featuring Scottish Gaelic or other Celtic language influences as evidenced by the accent mark over the 'o'. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning 'he will add' or 'God will increase'. This variation maintains the rich biblical heritage of Joseph, who was a significant figure in the Old Testament as the son of Jacob who became an important official in Egypt. While less common than the standard Joseph spelling, Iòseph offers parents seeking a masculine name with cultural depth a unique option that honors Celtic linguistic traditions while preserving the respected heritage and meaning of its more familiar counterpart.

  16. Beppe
    • Description:

      Beppe is a masculine Italian name that functions as a familiar diminutive of Giuseppe, the Italian form of Joseph. This affectionate nickname originated in Italy, particularly common in northern regions. The name Joseph derives from Hebrew, meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' Beppe maintains a warm, approachable quality while honoring Italian heritage and tradition. Outside of Italy, the name remains relatively uncommon, though Italian diaspora communities may use it. In modern Italy, Beppe continues to be used as both a nickname and occasionally as a given name in its own right. The name carries cultural significance, with notable bearers including Italian writers, politicians, and athletes. Its short, distinctive sound makes it memorable across cultural boundaries.

  17. Kep
    • Description:

      Kep is a short, distinctive masculine name with multiple possible origins. It may derive from Cambodian geography, referring to Kep Province, giving it cultural significance in Southeast Asian contexts. Alternatively, it could be a shortened form of names like Kepler or keeper, or even a surname adapted for first-name use. The brevity of Kep gives it a modern, minimalist appeal that works well in contemporary naming trends favoring short, impactful names. The name's rarity makes it statistically uncommon in most regions, appealing to parents seeking distinctive options. With its crisp sound and easy pronunciation across multiple languages, Kep offers simplicity while remaining memorable.
  18. Iokepa
    • Description:

      Iokepa is a masculine Hawaiian name that is the Hawaiian form of Joseph, which has Hebrew origins meaning 'God will increase.' The name reflects Hawaii's unique linguistic traditions and cultural heritage, demonstrating how Biblical names were adapted into the Hawaiian language following European contact. Pronounced 'yo-KEH-pa,' it features the melodic vowel patterns characteristic of Hawaiian names. Iokepa remains primarily used within Hawaiian families and communities, representing cultural pride and connection to heritage. For Hawaiian families, choosing this name often reflects a desire to honor both ancestral traditions and family connections while celebrating the distinct cultural identity of Hawaii.

  19. Osip
    • Description:

      Osip is a masculine name of Russian origin, derived from the Hebrew name Joseph (Yosef), meaning 'God will add' or 'God will increase.' It gained prominence in Russian history and literature, notably through the poet Osip Mandelstam. The name has historical significance in Eastern European and Russian Orthodox traditions but has remained relatively uncommon outside these regions. Osip has never ranked high on Western naming charts, maintaining its distinctive cultural identity. The name carries a strong, concise sound with its two syllables, offering a unique alternative to the more common Joseph. Parents drawn to this name often appreciate its literary connections, Russian heritage, or are seeking a distinctive name with historical roots.

  20. Josep
    • Origin:

      Catalan form of Joseph
    • Description:

      A Catalan classic that runs the risk of looking like a typo for those not in the know.