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Alternatives to Josephine

  1. Albertine

    • Origin:

      French feminine variation of Albert

    • Description:

      Albertine and Alberta are old-fashioned feminizations ala Geraldine and Roberta. This is the kind of name that sounds very dowdy until a hip celebrity chooses it, at which point we don't know how we missed its coolness all this time.
  2. Apolline

    • Origin:

      French form of Apollonia

    • Description:

      Apolline is a luscious French name chic in Paris and ripe for the plucking in the English-speaking world. Derived from the mythological name Apollo, the name may mean strength; Apollo was the god of sun and light. Apolline is a perfect choice for those attracted to the name Apple who don't want to go quite that far.
  3. Bernadette

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "brave as a bear"

    • Description:

      Although feminizations ending in "ette" are not particularly popular now, Bernadette is a pleasant, feminine, but strong name that doesn't feel prohibitively dated. And though strongly associated with the saint who saw visions of the Virgin Mary—Saint Bernadette of Lourdes—it is now no longer strictly inhabiting the Catholic diocese.
  4. Celestine

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "heavenly"

    • Description:

      Celestine is a pretty, crystalline extension (actually a diminutive) of Celeste that would make a choice that is both delicate and strong. It is also a popular name in France.
  5. Clementine

    • Origin:

      French feminine version of Clement, Latin

    • Meaning:

      "mild, merciful"

    • Description:

      Clementine is a Nameberry favorite that broke back into the US Top 1000 in 2014 after more than half a century off the list.
  6. Cosette

    • Origin:

      French literary nickname

    • Meaning:

      "little thing"

    • Description:

      Cosette is best known as the heroine of Les Miserables. In the Victor Hugo novel, Cosette was the nickname given to the girl named Euphrasie by her mother. Although Hugo invented the name, some etymologists believe it's a spin on Colette, originally a female short form of Nicolas.
  7. Delphine

    • Origin:

      French from Greek

    • Meaning:

      "of Delphi; womb"

    • Description:

      Delphine is a sleek, chic French name with two nature associations — the dolphin and the delphinium, a bluebell-like flower, a well as a link to the ancient city of Delphi, which the Greeks believed to be the womb of the earth. All of these derive from the Greek word delphus "womb".
  8. Eloise

    • Origin:

      French and English variation of Heloise

    • Meaning:

      "healthy; wide"

    • Description:

      Well balanced between sleek, sweet, strong, and vintage, newly chic Eloise re-entered the US Top 1000 in 2009, following a 50 year absence. In 2022, it broke into the Top 100 in the US and across the pond in the UK. Given to nearly 3000 babies each year, Eloise is showing no sign of stepping out of the spotlight.
  9. Emmeline

    • Origin:

      Old French form of archaic German Amal

    • Meaning:

      "work"

    • Description:

      Emmeline is an Emma relative and Emily cousin that is destined for greater use in the wake of the megapopularity of those two names. A recommended Nameberry fave, Emmeline hopped onto the US Top 1000 in 2014 for the first time ever. While it is genuinely an old name, it was rarely used a century ago; only 17 baby girls were named Emmeline in 1915, the same number as were named Ernie!
  10. Eulalie

    • Origin:

      French form of Eulalia, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "sweetly speaking"

    • Description:

      Eulalie hasn't ranked in the US Top 1000 since 1899, but its French roots might make it more appealing to modern ears than its sister Eulalia.
  11. Emmanuelle
    • Finja

      • Origin:

        German, short form of Josephine

      • Description:

        Finja Is a Josephine nickname that ranks among the Top 100 girl names in Germany.
    • Francine

      • Origin:

        French diminutive pet form of Francoise

      • Meaning:

        "from France or free man"

      • Description:

        With the advent of Pope Francis, all forms of this ancient and saintly name came up for a fresh look. Along with most other -een and -ine (when pronounced like -een) names for girls, Francine has a dated midcentury Mad Men feel. But its choice for their daughter by modern glamour couple Casey Neistat and Candice Pool, respectively a video star and a jewelry designer, has made Francine chic again.
    • Frederica

      • Origin:

        Feminine variation of Frederick, English from German

      • Meaning:

        "peaceful ruler"

      • Description:

        Frederica is an interesting possibility for the parent unintimidated by its old-fashioned formality, and who can appreciate the vintage charm and verve lurking beneath its stuffiness.
    • Georgette

      • Origin:

        French, feminine variation of George

      • Description:

        Has a musty 1940s feel. Try Georgia -- or Georgiana.
    • Geraldine

      • Origin:

        German and French, feminine variation of Gerald

      • Meaning:

        "ruler with the spear"

      • Description:

        Though twin brother Gerald is still in baby name limbo, Geraldine is in line to follow the path of Josephine to imminent revival—even though Gerry is not as spunky a nickname as Josie.
    • Henrietta

      • Origin:

        Feminine variation of Henry, German

      • Meaning:

        "estate ruler"

      • Description:

        Despite a return to such feminizations of male names as Josephine, Clementine, and Theodora, starchy Henrietta has not made it into that group. Still, if you look hard enough, you'll see that Henrietta has the same vintage charm.
    • Irene

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "peace"

      • Description:

        Serene Irene, the name of the Greek goddess of peace and one of the most familiar Greek goddess names, was hugely popular in ancient Rome and again in the United States a hundred years ago.
    • Ivorine

      • Description:

        Ivorine is a feminine name derived from the masculine name Ivor, which has Norse origins meaning 'yew tree warrior' or 'archer.' The feminine suffix '-ine' was added to create a delicate, feminine variation. Ivorine is considered quite rare, never having reached significant popularity in the United States or other English-speaking countries. The name carries a vintage, elegant quality reminiscent of names popular in the early 20th century. Those named Ivorine might appreciate its uniqueness and subtle connection to nature through the yew tree symbolism, which represents immortality and resilience in many ancient cultures.
    • Jaqueline

      • Description:

        Jaqueline is a variant spelling of Jacqueline, a feminine name with French origins. Derived from the masculine name Jacques (the French form of James), it ultimately traces back to the Hebrew name Ya'akov, meaning 'supplanter' or 'holder of the heel.' The name gained significant popularity in the United States during the 1960s due to the influence of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, whose grace and style made a lasting impression on American culture. This particular spelling variant, Jaqueline, omits one of the 'c's found in the traditional French spelling, giving it a slightly simplified appearance while maintaining the same pronunciation. Though less common than the standard spelling, Jaqueline offers a subtle distinction while still carrying the sophisticated and elegant qualities associated with the name.
    • Jaylene

      • Origin:

        Variation of Jayleen

      • Meaning:

        "pretty jaybird"

      • Description:

        Jaylene is one of those modern creations that could be seen as an attempt to be trendy yet retro at the same time. Part Jaylee, part Arlene, Jaylene could be an honor for a Jane or a James, a Helene, or a Darlene.
    • Jessaline

      • Description:

        Jessaline is a feminine name that appears to be a creative variation of more common names like Jessica or Jessalyn. It combines the popular Hebrew-derived name Jesse (meaning "gift" or "wealth") with a romantic, French-inspired suffix. The name emerged primarily in the late 20th century as parents sought distinctive alternatives to mainstream names while maintaining familiar roots. Jessaline carries a melodic quality with its soft ending, giving it an elegant and somewhat whimsical character. While not among the most popular names, it appeals to parents looking for something unique yet accessible. The name conveys a sense of individuality while retaining connections to more traditional naming patterns. Jessaline remains relatively uncommon, adding to its appeal for those seeking distinctive yet pleasing names.

    • Jessamine

      • Origin:

        English from Persian

      • Meaning:

        "jasmine"

      • Description:

        Jessamine, a charming name occasionally heard in England, is just beginning to be appreciated in the U.S. as a possible successor to all the Jess names of the past. It's also spelled Jessamyn, as in Quaker novelist Jessamyn West, author of Friendly Persuasion--who started life with Jessamyn as her middle name.
    • Jo

      • Origin:

        Diminutive of Joanna or Josephine, Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "Jehovah increases"

      • Description:

        The name Jo still evokes the spunky image of the character in Louisa May Alcott's Little Women. Its literary status makes Jo one of the OG boyish nicknames for girls, ala Frankie, Billie, and Stevie. If you like that form, you can lengthen it to Joey.
    • Joceline

      • Description:

        Joceline is a feminine name of French origin, functioning as a delicate diminutive of the male name Jocelyn, which derived from the Germanic elements 'Gauta' (the Goths) and 'helm' (helmet). The name has medieval roots and appears in various forms across European languages. With its soft sounds and elegant ending, Joceline carries a romantic, vintage quality that appeals to parents seeking names with historical depth. Though never extremely common, Joceline saw occasional usage throughout the 20th century, particularly in French-speaking regions. The name offers various spelling alternatives, including Jocelyne and Joseline. Joceline balances familiarity with distinctiveness, providing a less common alternative to popular 'J' names like Jessica or Jennifer while maintaining a recognizable structure and feminine charm.
    • Jocelyn

      • Origin:

        German

      • Meaning:

        "member of the Gauts tribe"

      • Description:

        Jocelyn has gotten new life and popularity as a result of the current passion for lyn endings. Though it was a male name in medieval times, now Jocelyn couldn't sound more softly feminine.
    • Jolene

      • Origin:

        Modern invented name

      • Description:

        Stuck in the shadow of the old Dolly Parton song. In spite of its dated feel, Jolene reentered the charts in 2010 and has been rising in recent years.
    • Jolie

      • Origin:

        French

      • Meaning:

        "pretty"

      • Description:

        Jolie is as pretty as its literal meaning; nowadays it is also seen as a girls’ name, via Angelina for whom Jolie was originally her middle name.
    • Josceline

      • Description:

        Josceline is a feminine name of Medieval French origin, derived from the Germanic elements 'Gaut' (Goth) and 'lind' (gentle, soft). It emerged as the feminine form of Jocelin or Joscelin, names brought to England by the Normans after the conquest of 1066. Throughout history, Josceline has maintained an air of aristocratic elegance while never becoming widely popular. The name has various spelling variations including Joceline and Joseline. Appreciated for its delicate sound and noble heritage, Josceline remains a rare choice that appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth and refined character. In recent decades, it has seen occasional use among families with French or British connections who value its classic, somewhat mysterious appeal.

    • Josefina

      • Origin:

        Hebrew, Spanish, Portuguese, Swedish feminine form of Joseph, Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "Jehovah increases"

      • Description:

        Sweet and bright international form of Josephine, used in many European countries with various pronunciations of the initial J. A notable bearer is Josefina "Joey" Guerrero, a Filipina spy during World War II.
    • Josephe

      • Origin:

        French feminine variation of Joseph, Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "Jehovah increases"

      • Description:

        Josephe is much less well-known in the English-speaking world than Josephine or Joanna. English speakers might have trouble with its similarity to the male Joseph.
    • Josette

      • Origin:

        French,pet form of Josephine, feminine of Joseph, Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "Jehovah increases"

      • Description:

        One of the group of French 'ette'-ending names that emigrated to this country in the last century, though never as popular as some others, such as Claudette and Paulette--it did have a little six-year flurry here between 1967 and 1973. Josette may be feminine and flirty, but, given the choice, most parents today would prefer Josephine.
    • Josie

      • Origin:

        English, diminutive of Josephine, feminine of Joseph, Hebrew

      • Meaning:

        "Jehovah increases"

      • Description:

        Josie is jaunty and friendly: among the most winning of all nickname names. She's been on the social security list since records began being kept.
    • Juliet

      • Origin:

        English from Latin

      • Meaning:

        "youthful or sky father"

      • Description:

        One of the most romantic names, the lovely and stylish Juliet seems finally to have shaken off her limiting link to Romeo. In Shakespeare's play, it was Juliet who said "What's in a name?"
    • Juliette

      • Origin:

        French from Latin

      • Meaning:

        "little Julia"

      • Description:

        Juliette, pronounced with the emphasis on the last syllable, adds a little something extra to Juliet. In the past years it has been rising up the chart.
    • Katherine

      • Origin:

        Greek

      • Meaning:

        "pure"

      • Description:

        Katherine is one of the oldest, most diverse, and all-around best names: it's powerful, feminine, royal, saintly, classic, popular, and adaptable. Long one of the top girls' names starting with K, Katherine has now been unseated on the popularity list by upstarts Kennedy and Kinsley, but a dip in popularity only adds to its charm.
    • Laurentine

      • Description:

        Laurentine is a feminine name of Latin origin, derived from the ancient Roman name Laurentius, meaning 'from Laurentum' or 'crowned with laurel.' This elegant name carries associations with victory and honor, as laurel wreaths were traditionally awarded to champions in classical times. Primarily used in French-speaking regions and areas with strong Romance language influence, Laurentine has a sophisticated, almost aristocratic quality. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, it offers an elaborate alternative to more familiar forms like Laura or Lauren. The name's flowing, four-syllable pronunciation creates a melodic rhythm. Laurentine might appeal to parents seeking a name with classical roots, French flair, and an elegant, distinctive quality while still connecting to the more familiar Laura family of names.
    • Leopoldine

      • Origin:

        French feminine version of Leopold

      • Meaning:

        "brave people"

      • Description:

        A sophisticated girls' name for those attracted to Leona, Leonie and Leonore.
    • Lucine

      • Origin:

        Armenian, English, French

      • Meaning:

        "moon; light; grove, light"

      • Description:

        Sweet and stylish, Lucine is a versatile choice that can be used as a spelling variation of the celestial Armenian name Lusine. It is equally considered an elaboration of the classic Lucy and as a French form of Lucina, a name that means "grove", but can also be associated with light.
    • Marceline

      • Origin:

        Feminization of Marcel, French

      • Meaning:

        "little warrior"

      • Description:

        Balancing femininity, vintage charm, and fantasy nerdiness, Marceline is one to watch. Marceline the Vampire Queen from the 2010-2018 animated TV series Adventure Time brought her elaborate French name back into public consciousness. It re-entered the Top 1000 in 2020, after an 86 year hiatus, and rose into the 700s in 2021. Nicknames Marcie and Marcy are rising in popularity as well. Marceline may appeal to parents who like frilly, traditional, and sophisticated names such as Josephine and Genevieve.
    • Maybellene

      • Origin:

        Variation of Maybelline

      • Meaning:

        "lovable"

      • Description:

        Maybellene is the true one-of-a-kind baby name that Taylor and Natalie Hanson chose for their daughter in 2020. It's a variation of Maybelline, which is itself an elaboration of the name Mabel. The Maybellene spelling makes it one step removed from the cosmetics brand.
    • Nicolette

      • Origin:

        French, diminutive of Nicole, feminine variation of Nicholas, Greek

      • Meaning:

        "people of victory"

      • Description:

        Nicolette is the ultra-feminine name of an enchanting princess in the medieval French romance, Aucassin et Nicolette, a name that got stacks of publicity in the heyday of Desperate Housewives and its star Nicolette Sheridan. It was also the name of Chloe Sevigny's character in Big Love.
    • Nicoline

      • Description:

        Nicoline is a feminine name of Greek origin, functioning as a derivative of Nicholas (Nikolaos), which combines 'nike' (victory) and 'laos' (people), meaning 'victory of the people'. This elegant variation is most common in Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark and Norway, as well as in the Netherlands. The name offers a softer, more feminine alternative to Nicole or Nicolette. Nicoline carries a classic feel with a modern sensibility, making it both timeless and contemporary. While not among the most popular names, it has maintained steady usage throughout Northern Europe. The name lends itself to nicknames like Nico, Nicky, or Lina, providing versatility while maintaining its distinctive character.
    • Ottoline

      • Origin:

        French and English, diminutive of Ottolie

      • Meaning:

        "prospers in battle"

      • Description:

        Curiously appealing, in a hoop-skirted, wasp-waisted way, Ottoline has recently entered the realm of modern possibility, especially since Sienna Miller chose it as the middle name of her daughter Marlowe.
    • Philomine

      • Origin:

        Variation of Philomena, Greek

      • Meaning:

        "lover of strength"

      • Description:

        This variation of Philomena has never been high on the popularity charts, but it did appear in the US infrequently as a French immigrant name. As a result, it has some ties to Louisiana and the Cajun community.
    • Posie

      • Origin:

        Variation of Posy or short form of Mariposa, English or Spanish

      • Meaning:

        "a bunch of flowers or butterfly"

      • Description:

        Posie and its near-identical twins Posy and Posey are delicate old-fashioned flower names of the type that are stylish today: Think Poppy, Marigold, Clover.
    • Phillippa
      • Quinntina

        • Description:

          Quinntina is a modern feminine name that combines the popular unisex name Quinn with the feminine suffix '-tina.' Quinn itself has Irish Gaelic origins, derived from 'Ó Cuinn' meaning 'descendant of Conn,' where Conn signifies 'wisdom' or 'chief.' The addition of the diminutive suffix '-tina' (common in names like Christina and Valentina) creates a longer, more elaborately feminine variation. This creative combination exemplifies contemporary naming trends that extend traditional names with decorative elements. Quinntina remains quite rare, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive name with recognizable elements. It offers the strength and gender-neutrality of Quinn while adding a traditionally feminine flair. The name maintains Quinn's association with intelligence and leadership while creating a unique identity with its melodic four-syllable structure.
      • Rosalind

        • Origin:

          Latin

        • Meaning:

          "supple horse or pretty rose"

        • Description:

          Rosalind has a distinguished literary history – used and popularized by Edmund Spenser and Shakespeare via one of his most charming heroines, in As You Like It. Along with a bouquet of other Rose names, Rosalind might be ready for a comeback.
      • Rosaline

        • Origin:

          Medieval variation of Rosalind

        • Description:

          Rosaline, which can be pronounced to rhyme with mine or mean in its final syllable, has a deeper, richer pedigree than it might seem. Rosaline was used twice by Shakespeare and was also used in the poetry of Edmund Spenser. While we prefer the stronger-sounding Rosalind or Rosamund, Rosaline deserves another contemporary look.
      • Rosamund

        • Origin:

          German

        • Meaning:

          "horse protection"

        • Description:

          This lovely, quintessentially British appellation, also spelled Rosamond, is the name of a legendary twelfth-century beauty. Rare on these shores, it is more than worthy of importation.
      • Roseline

        • Origin:

          French variation of Rosalind

        • Meaning:

          "supple horse; pretty rose"

        • Description:

          The French form of the elegant Rosalind and the name of a 13th century saint. It was particularly popular in its native France during the 1950s, while currently, it is most popular in Haiti, Kenya, and Nigeria. One notable bearer is Roseline Éloissaint, a Haitian footballer.
      • Seraphine

        • Origin:

          French from Hebrew

        • Meaning:

          "burning ones"

        • Description:

          Seraphine is the Gallic version of the angelic name Seraphina. But while Seraphina has been rising rapidly since Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck chose it for their second daughter, Seraphine has been largely ignored, though we believe the French vowel-sound ending will soon be more stylish than the a-endings that have predominated in girls' names for years.
      • Theodora

        • Origin:

          Feminine variation of Theodore, Greek

        • Meaning:

          "gift of God"

        • Description:

          Theodora is one of the most revival-worthy of the charmingly old-fashioned Victorian valentine names, softly evocative but still substantial, as is the reversed-syllable Dorothea.
      • Ursaline
        • Veronique

          • Origin:

            French form of Veronica

          • Meaning:

            "true image"

          • Description:

            Veronica seems poised to rise again, along with many other V names, and with it may follow this more romantic French version.
        • Victorine

          • Origin:

            French variation of Victoria, Latin

          • Meaning:

            "victory"

          • Description:

            Victorine is appealing if you know it's an authentic vintage French girls' name, less so if you assume it's an awkward feminization, ala Davette or Richardine.
        • Vincentine

          • Description:

            Vincentine is a feminine form of Vincent, ultimately derived from the Latin name Vincentius, meaning 'conquering' or 'victorious'. This elegant elaboration adds a distinctly feminine ending to the traditionally masculine name. Vincentine has historic usage primarily in French-speaking regions, though it has always remained relatively uncommon. The name carries associations of triumph and resilience, inherited from its root meaning. Vincentine has an aristocratic, somewhat antique quality that evokes the elegance of bygone eras. The name's four syllables create a flowing, melodious sound profile. Though rare in contemporary usage, Vincentine might appeal to parents seeking a name with classical roots and a refined, distinctive character.

        • Wilhelmine

          • Description:

            Wilhelmine is a feminine name of Germanic origin, serving as the female form of Wilhelm (William), which means 'resolute protector' or 'determined guardian.' Popular in Germany, Austria, and Scandinavian countries throughout history, Wilhelmine was particularly common among European royalty and nobility. The name combines strength and elegance with its regal heritage and melodic four syllables. While less common today, it offers several charming nickname options including Mina, Wilma, and Helmi. Wilhelmine carries an air of classic sophistication and old-world charm that appeals to parents seeking a name with historical depth. Though traditional, its relative rarity in modern times makes it distinctive for contemporary girls.
        • Yasimine

          • Description:

            Yasimine appears to be a variant spelling of Jasmine, a feminine name derived from the Persian word 'yasmin,' referring to the fragrant flowering plant. This alternative spelling adds a unique touch while maintaining the melodic beauty of the original name. Jasmine gained significant popularity in Western cultures during the 1990s, partly due to Disney's character in 'Aladdin,' though this particular spelling remains uncommon. The name evokes images of the sweet-scented flower and carries associations with beauty and delicacy across many cultures. With its exotic feel and familiar sound, Yasimine offers a distinctive option that blends Persian heritage with contemporary appeal.
        • Zacqueline

          • Description:

            Zacqueline is a feminine name that appears to be a creative variation of Jacqueline, with the initial 'J' replaced by 'Z' for a more distinctive sound and appearance. Jacqueline is the French feminine form of Jacques (James), ultimately derived from Hebrew meaning 'supplanter.' Zacqueline maintains the elegant, classic structure of Jacqueline while adding a contemporary edge with the uncommon 'Z' beginning. This innovative spelling creates a name that feels both familiar and unique. Though rare, Zacqueline appeals to parents seeking an unusual twist on a classic name. It maintains the sophisticated impression of Jacqueline while standing out in a crowd.
        • Zephyrine

          • Origin:

            Feminine variation of Zephyr, Greek

          • Meaning:

            "west wind"

          • Description:

            Zephyr may not be a name often heard in the U.S., but its variations are used throughout Europe. Zephyrine, a cousin in sound and feel if not in fact to such lovely names as Severine and Seraphina, has distinctive possibilities.