MallowbyNames

Joshuwa

JOSH-oo-ah · Modern respelling of Joshua, traditionally meaning 'Yahweh is salvation'.

Peak popularity
1989
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Joshuwa since 1976

Babies named Joshuwa per year in U.S. Social Security records.

71522198020002020Most births 1989Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1970s38
1980s131
1990s122
2000s102
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Joshuwa is a modern respelling of Joshua, reflecting the creative spelling trend that gained momentum in the late 20th century. First recorded in 1976, the name saw its peak usage in 1989, though it has never entered the top 1000, remaining a rare choice. Its trajectory has been stable, indicating a small but consistent number of parents opting for this spelling each year. Unlike the standard Joshua, which has been a top-tier name for decades, Joshuwa offers a distinctive alternative while retaining the familiar nickname Josh. The name's earliest usage aligns with the broader cultural shift toward unique spellings in the 1970s and 1980s.

Joshuwa is a modern English respelling of Joshua, itself from the Hebrew name Yehoshua. It emerged in the late 20th century as part of the trend of creative spelling, particularly in the United States. The name has seen limited but consistent use since the 1970s.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Josh, Joshie

Variants: Joshua, Yehoshua

Sibling names for Joshuwa

Names that share Joshuwa's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

J is for Joshuwa, our favorite little boy.

J is for Joshuwa…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Joshuwa's letter becomes Joshuwa's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Joshuwa's book

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Joshuwa mean?
Joshuwa is a modern spelling of Joshua, which traditionally means 'Yahweh is salvation'.
How popular is the name Joshuwa?
Joshuwa has never ranked in the top 1000 U.S. names. It was first recorded in 1976 and peaked in usage in 1989.
Is Joshuwa a boy's name?
Yes, Joshuwa is almost exclusively used as a boy's name.