Joey

Joey began as a familiar form of Joseph, a name of Hebrew origin meaning “he will add,” traditionally understood with reference to God. It can also shorten Josephine and other Jo names, so the intended full-name connection may vary by family. Joey is now used as a complete given name as well as a nickname.

The ending gives Joey two syllables and a different everyday feel from the shorter Jo. Parents can choose Joseph or Josephine if they want both a formal and an informal option, or use Joey directly without needing an expansion. The same word describes a young marsupial in English, an association separate from the personal name’s history.