Girl Names with Moxie

Gussie is traditionally a masculine nickname that originated as a diminutive for names like Augustus, Augustine, or Gustav. These parent names have Latin and Germanic roots meaning "revered," "great," or "staff of the Goths." Gussie was fairly common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the southern United States, giving it a vintage, folksy charm. While primarily used for boys historically, it occasionally appeared as a nickname for girls named Augusta or Augustine as well. The name declined in popularity after the 1920s but retains nostalgic appeal. Gussie exemplifies the trend of reviving antique nickname-names as formal names, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical character and unpretentious warmth.

Josie as a masculine name represents an uncommon usage of what is traditionally a feminine nickname for Josephine. While Josie has been predominantly used for girls since the late 19th century, some parents have begun choosing it for boys, perhaps as a diminutive of Joseph. This gender-neutral approach reflects evolving naming trends that challenge traditional gender associations. The name has a friendly, approachable quality with its soft sounds and informal feel. For boys, Josie offers a distinctive option that stands out from traditional masculine names while maintaining connection to the widespread Joseph family of names. This usage remains quite rare, making it a truly unique choice for parents seeking names that transcend conventional gender boundaries.