Declining since 1986.
Popularity of Josua since 1971
Babies named Josua per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 101 |
| 1980s | 335 |
| 1990s | 168 |
| 2000s | 129 |
| 2010s | 27 |
| 2020s | 13 |
Meaning & origin
Josua first appeared in U.S. records in 1971, though it has never entered widespread use. The name reached its peak in 1987, but its popularity has generally been falling since 1986. As a German and Scandinavian form of Joshua, Josua offers a distinctive alternative to the more common English spelling. The name carries strong biblical heritage without being overused in modern times, appealing to parents seeking a traditional yet uncommon choice.
Josua is a German and Scandinavian form of the Hebrew name Yehoshua (Joshua), meaning 'Yahweh is salvation.' It appears in the Bible as the successor of Moses. The name has been used in German-speaking countries since the Protestant Reformation, though it has never been as common as the English Joshua.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jo, Jos, Josh
Variants: Joshua, Jozua, Josué
Sibling names for Josua
Names that share Josua's style, for a brother or sister.
