Jocelyn

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Jocelyn

Gender Girl
Origin Latin
Letters 7
Syllables 3
Pronunciation joh-ss-lyn

Jocelyn, which has 7 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of Latin origin.

Meaning of Jocelyn

Light hearted

Jocelyn is a French name derived from the Germanic name Gaudiosa, meaning "joyful" or "full of joy." It has been used as a given name in English-speaking countries since the 19th century.

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(3/5 from 45 votes)
Meaning Light hearted
Origin Latin
Gender Girl
Popularity (US) #389 in 2024 Declining
Rarity (US) Uncommon (Top 500)
Era 2000s name

Background & History of The Name Jocelyn

Jocelyn is a name of English origin that has gained popularity over the years. It is commonly used for girls and is derived from the masculine name Joscelin, which originated from the Germanic name Goscelin. The name Goscelin is a combination of the Germanic elements "gōd" meaning "good" and "scēað" meaning "man." Jocelyn is often considered a unisex name in some regions, as it is occasionally given to boys as well.

People with the name Jocelyn are often described as vibrant, confident, and intelligent individuals. They are known for their sociable nature and ability to easily connect with others. Jocelyn is a name that carries a sense of elegance and sophistication, which may explain its popularity among parents seeking a refined name for their daughters.

Throughout history, there have been notable individuals with the name Jocelyn. One example is Jocelyn Bell Burnell, a British astrophysicist who played a crucial role in the discovery of pulsars, celestial objects that emit regular pulses of electromagnetic radiation. Another prominent figure is Jocelyn Wildenstein, an American socialite known for her extensive plastic surgery and highly publicized divorce from billionaire art dealer Alec Wildenstein.

In terms of popularity, Jocelyn has steadily risen in popularity in recent years. It reached its peak in the United States in the late 1990s and early 2000s, consistently ranking among the top 100 girl names. The name continues to maintain its popularity due to its timeless appeal and versatility.

In conclusion, Jocelyn is a popular English name that carries an air of elegance and intelligence. Whether used for a boy or girl, individuals named Jocelyn often exude confidence and have a natural ability to connect with others. The name has a rich history and is favored by many parents for its sophistication and timeless charm.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Jocelyn over the years.

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