Joe

Joe is the familiar English short form of Joseph, a Hebrew name traditionally understood as “God will add.” It has also long been used as a complete given name. Its many everyday expressions, from an average Joe to a cup of joe, contribute to a particularly familiar place in English conversation.

Joseph supplies a longer formal option, while Joey adds another syllable to the short name. Joe is also sometimes used as a nickname for feminine names, although Jo is another established spelling in that role. Parents honoring a Joseph can choose the short form directly or preserve both versions, depending on which they expect to use most often.