Joséphine

Joséphine is a given name, primarily of French origin. It is the French feminine form of the given name Joseph, which is derived from the Hebrew name Yosef. The name's meaning is generally understood to be "God will increase" or "God shall add." It has been a popular name in France and other Francophone countries for centuries, often associated with royalty and historical figures.

Notable individuals named Joséphine include Empress Joséphine, the first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress of the French. She was born Marie Josèphe Rose Tascher de La Pagerie and adopted the name Joséphine upon her marriage. Her influence on French fashion and culture was significant during her time. Another notable figure is Joséphine Baker, an American-born French entertainer, singer, and civil rights activist. She achieved fame in Paris in the 1920s and later became a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement. The name Joséphine has also appeared in literature and popular culture, often evoking a sense of elegance or historical significance. While its popularity has fluctuated over time, Joséphine remains a recognizable and classic name.