Josey
2025 SSA
2025 SSA
About Josey
Josey is a sweet, approachable feminine name typically considered a diminutive form of Josephine, which derives from the Hebrew name Joseph meaning 'God will add.' This spelling variation, with an 'ey' ending rather than the more common 'ie' (as in Josie), gives the name a slightly distinctive quality while maintaining its familiar sound. Josey has a vintage charm that recalls rural Americana and has experienced occasional use throughout the 20th century. The name gained some recognition through the film 'The Outlaw Josey Wales,' though there it was used as a masculine name. With its friendly, unpretentious quality, Josey appeals to parents seeking a name that balances traditional roots with casual warmth and simplicity.
Josey for boys#4192 US
Josie and Josey read as feminine names, but a handful of boys are given this form as a first name each year. Josey is also heard as a pet name for Joseph.
Pronounced JO-zee.
As of October 2026, Josey ranked #2793 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #1782 in 1998.
Popularity & trends
Data table
| Year | US rank · girls | Births · girls | US rank · boys | Births · boys |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | #2,146 | 89 | — | 0 |
| 2015 | #2,421 | 76 | — | 0 |
| 2016 | #2,402 | 78 | — | 0 |
| 2017 | #2,090 | 93 | #4,390 | 23 |
| 2018 | #2,172 | 87 | — | 0 |
| 2019 | #2,161 | 86 | — | 0 |
| 2020 | #2,161 | 84 | #4,482 | 22 |
| 2021 | #2,138 | 88 | — | 0 |
| 2022 | #2,198 | 86 | #4,776 | 21 |
| 2023 | #2,427 | 74 | — | 0 |
| 2024 | #2,327 | 79 | #4,009 | 27 |
| 2025 | #2,793 | 61 | #4,192 | 25 |
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Josey on lists
Famous Joseys
- Josey Hollis Dorsey (b. 2015)Girl
son of American actors Naya Rivera & Ryan Dorsey
Josey in pop culture
- Josey AimesGirl
from the movie "North Country"