Josephine, of Latin origin, is a feminine given name derived from the Roman family name Josephus, which was itself derived from the Hebrew name Yosef. It means "God will increase" or "God shall add". The name has been popular throughout history, particularly in France and some English-speaking countries.
In the 18th century, Josephine became associated with Empress Joséphine de Beauharnais, born Rose Tascher de La Pagerie, who married Napoleon Bonaparte. After her divorce from Napoleon, she remained a significant figure in French society and politics until her death in 1814. The name Josephine gained further popularity during the Victorian era due to her influence.
The name Josephine has been used by several famous figures throughout history. Notably, it was the given name of Joséphine Baker, an American-born French dancer, singer, and actress who became a major star in Europe during the 1920s. She was known for her performances in Paris where she was the first African-American woman to become a world-famous entertainer.
In literature and arts, Josephine has been used as a character name in several works, such as "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens, and "Josephine: The Life of Joséphine Bonaparte" by Catherine de Saint-Helier. The name also appears in numerous songs and musical compositions, reflecting its enduring appeal.
Today, Josephine continues to be a popular choice for parents naming their daughters. It has a timeless elegance that appeals to many, while still sounding modern and approachable. Whether derived from historical figures or literary influences, the name Josephine carries with it a sense of sophistication and grace.
"The name Josephine experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over time. While it started with a low of 6 births per year between 1885 and 1892, there was a steady increase from the late 1800s to the early 1900s, peaking at 37 births in 1932. After World War II, its popularity declined, with fewer than 10 births per year recorded from 1946 onwards. The most recent data shows a slight resurgence with 9 births in 1989 and 5 births in 2023."