Discover people named Anne Josephine

The last name "Josephine" is primarily recognized as a feminine given name rather than a traditional surname; however, it can occasionally be found as a surname in some cultures. The name Josephine has its roots in the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning "God will add," and it gained popularity in various European countries, particularly in France, where it became widely used in the 19th century, partly due to the influence of Empress Joséphine, the wife of Napoleon Bonaparte. As a surname, it may be associated with families who were named after a matriarch or notable female ancestor named Josephine. Variations of the name can be found across different cultures, including "Josefina" in Spanish-speaking countries and "Giuseppina" in Italian, each reflecting local linguistic characteristics. While the surname Josephine is not as common as its use as a first name, it embodies a rich historical significance tied to familial lineage and cultural heritage.