Rising since 1991, #7,133 for girls today.
Popularity of Josefine since 1918
Babies named Josefine per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 7 |
| 1920s | 26 |
| 1930s | 15 |
| 1940s | 31 |
| 1950s | 42 |
| 1960s | 22 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 50 |
| 1990s | 86 |
| 2000s | 153 |
| 2010s | 151 |
| 2020s | 124 |
Meaning & origin
Josefine is a feminine name of Hebrew origin, meaning 'God will increase,' and is a variant of Josephine common in German and Scandinavian countries. In the United States, it was first recorded in 1918, but its usage has been gradually rising since 1991, with a peak popularity in 2021. The name's trajectory is upward, reflecting a renewed interest in classic names with European flair. Though not among the most common names nationally, its steady increase suggests a niche appeal among parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive choice.
Josefine is a feminine form of Joseph, derived from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning 'He will add' or 'God will increase.' The spelling with an 'f' instead of 'ph' is common in German and Scandinavian languages, where it has been used since the 18th century. It became especially popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in German-speaking countries.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jose, Fina, Sefi
Sibling names for Josefine
Names that share Josefine's style, for a brother or sister.
