Joshua

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Joshua

Gender Boy
Origin Hebrew
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation juh-SHOO-uh

Joshua, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Hebrew origin.

Meaning of Joshua

God is salvation

Joshua is a Hebrew name meaning “Yahweh is salvation.” It is derived from the Hebrew root yehōshu‘a, which literally translates to “Yahweh is salvation.” It is also a common name among English-speaking people, and is the Anglicized form of the Greek name Iesous or Jesus.

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(3.5/5 from 69 votes)
Meaning God is salvation
Origin Hebrew
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #57 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Common (Top 100)
Era 2000s name

Background & History of The Name Joshua

The name Joshua originates from the Hebrew language and holds a significant meaning. It is derived from the Hebrew name "Yehoshua," which can be translated as "Yahweh is salvation" or "God is salvation." The name Joshua carries a biblical association as it was the name of a prominent figure in the Old Testament. Joshua was the successor of Moses and led the Israelites into the Promised Land, conquering numerous territories along the way. He is remembered for his unwavering faith in God and his role in securing the future of the Israelite nation. As a result, the name Joshua is often associated with leadership, strength, and courage.

Throughout history, the name Joshua has remained popular in various cultures worldwide. It gained prominence in English-speaking countries during the Protestant Reformation and subsequently spread throughout Europe. The name has also been Anglicized in different forms such as Josiah, Joss, and Josh. In recent decades, Joshua has consistently been among the top-ranking names for boys in countries like the United States and England. This enduring popularity may be attributed to the name's biblical roots and the positive attributes it represents.

People named Joshua are often described as confident, intelligent, and determined. They possess natural leadership qualities and strive to excel in their undertakings. Joshua is a timeless name that carries a sense of tradition while remaining relevant in modern times. As individuals, those named Joshua tend to be charismatic and have a strong influence on the people around them. They are often driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world and are likely to succeed in their endeavors.

In summary, the name Joshua is rooted in biblical origins and signifies the belief in God's saving power. It holds a connection to strength, leadership, and determination. With its rich history and positive connotations, Joshua continues to be a popular choice for parents seeking a meaningful name for their child.

Popularity Over Time

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

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