Josiah: a male name of Hebrew origin meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah".It derives from the Hebrew word "Yôšiyyāhû / Yoshiyyáhu > Iōsíās".
Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Josiah, drawn to its Hebrew heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Josiah
Quick facts about Josiah
Origin
Hebrew
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah.” Josiah was a king of Judah (641–609 BC), according to the Hebrew Bible, who instituted significant reforms. Most historians credit Josiah with having established or compiled important Hebrew Scriptures during the Deuteronomic reform that occurred during his rule. He is also one of the kings mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 2013, the name Josiah ranked 69th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Yôšiyyāhû / Yoshiyyáhu > Iōsíās
How to Pronounce Josiah
Josiah is pronounced /dʒoʊˈzaɪə/(Hebrew)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Jos-iah
Say it like: "DZHOOOZAEEHOOH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Josiah is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
english
Frequently Asked Questions About Josiah
What does the name Josiah mean?
Josiah means "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah.” Josiah was a king of Judah (641–609 BC), according to the Hebrew Bible, who instituted significant reforms. Most historians credit Josiah with having established or compiled important Hebrew Scriptures during the Deuteronomic reform that occurred during his rule. He is also one of the kings mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 2013, the name Josiah ranked 69th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys.". The name comes from Yôšiyyāhû / Yoshiyyáhu > Iōsíās. In its original form, the name derives from Yôšiyyāhû / Yoshiyyáhu (יֹאשִׁיָהוּ) Iōsíās (Ἰωσίᾱς). This hebrew name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Josiah for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah.” Josiah was a king of Judah (641–609 BC), according to the Hebrew Bible, who instituted significant reforms. Most historians credit Josiah with having established or compiled important Hebrew Scriptures during the Deuteronomic reform that occurred during his rule. He is also one of the kings mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 2013, the name Josiah ranked 69th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Josiah's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Josiah?
Josiah is a hebrew name. The name traces back to Yôšiyyāhû / Yoshiyyáhu > Iōsíās. The original form Yôšiyyāhû / Yoshiyyáhu (יֹאשִׁיָהוּ) Iōsíās (Ἰωσίᾱς) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The hebrew meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah.” Josiah was a king of Judah (641–609 BC), according to the Hebrew Bible, who instituted significant reforms. Most historians credit Josiah with having established or compiled important Hebrew Scriptures during the Deuteronomic reform that occurred during his rule. He is also one of the kings mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 2013, the name Josiah ranked 69th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Josiah a boy or girl name?
Josiah is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In hebrew tradition, Josiah has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah.” Josiah was a king of Judah (641–609 BC), according to the Hebrew Bible, who instituted significant reforms. Most historians credit Josiah with having established or compiled important Hebrew Scriptures during the Deuteronomic reform that occurred during his rule. He is also one of the kings mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 2013, the name Josiah ranked 69th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Josiah?
Josiah is pronounced "/dʒoʊˈzaɪə/". This pronunciation follows he language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Josiah is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with hebrew names, listening to a native speaker say Josiah can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Yôšiyyāhû / Yoshiyyáhu > Iōsíās influences how Josiah sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Josiah?
Josiah is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Josiah offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Josiah's popularity may vary between hebrew communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah.” Josiah was a king of Judah (641–609 BC), according to the Hebrew Bible, who instituted significant reforms. Most historians credit Josiah with having established or compiled important Hebrew Scriptures during the Deuteronomic reform that occurred during his rule. He is also one of the kings mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 2013, the name Josiah ranked 69th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Josiah holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Josiah commonly used?
Josiah is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though hebrew in origin, Josiah found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah.” Josiah was a king of Judah (641–609 BC), according to the Hebrew Bible, who instituted significant reforms. Most historians credit Josiah with having established or compiled important Hebrew Scriptures during the Deuteronomic reform that occurred during his rule. He is also one of the kings mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 2013, the name Josiah ranked 69th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Josiah into their naming traditions. A child named Josiah will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Josiah is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Josiah?
Josiah carries associations with BIBLICAL. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Hebrew “Yôšiyyāhû > Yoshiyyáhu” (Greek: Io̱sías “Ιωσίας”; Latin: Josias), meaning “Yahweh supports, supported of Yah.” Josiah was a king of Judah (641–609 BC), according to the Hebrew Bible, who instituted significant reforms. Most historians credit Josiah with having established or compiled important Hebrew Scriptures during the Deuteronomic reform that occurred during his rule. He is also one of the kings mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. According to the United States Social Security card applications in 2013, the name Josiah ranked 69th out of the top 100 names chosen by parents for their baby boys." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In hebrew culture, where Josiah originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Josiah sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Josiah often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.