Jo
1. Jo name meaning and origin
Jo is a versatile name with multiple origins. Most commonly, it serves as a short form of feminine names like Joanna, Josephine, and Joan, or masculine names such as Joseph and Jonathan. The name ultimately derives from the Hebrew name Yochanan (יוֹחָנָן), meaning 'God is gracious' or 'Yahweh has been gracious,' which came into European languages through its Greek and Latin forms.
In some contexts, Jo stands as an independent given name rather than a nickname, particularly in English-speaking countries since the mid-20th century. The name gained notable literary recognition through the character Josephine 'Jo' March in Louisa May Alcott's novel 'Little Women' (1868), which helped popularize it as a name representing strength and independence for women. While predominantly used for females in contemporary Western society, Jo maintains gender-neutral qualities in some cultural contexts.
2. Jo name popularity
Jo is a gender-neutral name used in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Often serving as a shortened form of names like Joseph, Josephine, Joanna, or Jordan, it has maintained a presence in both countries as a standalone given name for both males and females. The name's simplicity and versatility have contributed to its cross-cultural appeal.
While specific popularity rankings aren't indicated in the available data, Jo has persisted as a minimalist naming option that transcends gender boundaries. Its brevity makes it a practical choice for parents seeking a straightforward, unpretentious name that works equally well in professional settings and casual interactions.
3. Variations and nicknames of Jo
The name Jo serves as both a standalone name and a shortened form of several longer names across various cultures and languages. In English-speaking countries, Jo frequently appears as an abbreviation of feminine names like Josephine, Joanna, Joan, and Jolene. Similarly, it can represent masculine names such as Joseph, Jonathan, and Joel. Beyond English usage, Jo exists as a legitimate given name in its own right in Scandinavian countries where it typically serves as a masculine name. The spelling variations Jo, Joe, and Joh reflect different cultural traditions, with Joe being more common in American usage, while Jo tends to prevail in British and European contexts.
The versatility of Jo has spawned numerous affectionate nicknames and diminutive forms that friends and family often use. Common playful derivatives include Joey, Jojo, and Jo-Jo, which work regardless of gender. For those named Josephine or Joseph, Josie represents a popular feminine alternative, while Joe and Joey lean masculine in English-speaking regions. In certain cultural contexts, names like Jocelyn and Jodie evolved as extensions of Jo. The compact, single-syllable nature of Jo makes it an appealing choice for parents seeking a concise yet meaningful name that crosses gender boundaries and works effectively across international borders, while still offering the flexibility of expanding to a more formal version later in life if desired.
4. Best name combinations with Jo
Middle names that pair well with Jo:
- Jo Elise
- Jo Amara
- Jo Seraphina
- Jo Catherine
- Jo Valentina
- Jo Imogen
- Jo Mei-Ling
- Jo Alessandra
- Jo Evangeline
- Jo Genevieve
- Jo Eleanor
- Jo Annika
- Jo Catalina
- Jo Isabelle
- Jo Vivienne
- Jo Mirabelle
- Jo Theodora
- Jo Celeste
Names that go well when Jo is used as a middle name:
- Amelia Jo
- Isabella Jo
- Charlotte Jo
- Sophia Jo
- Olivia Jo
- Eloise Jo
- Gabriella Jo
- Francesca Jo
- Savannah Jo
- Madeline Jo
- Victoria Jo
- Elizabeth Jo
- Penelope Jo
- Alexandra Jo
- Juliette Jo
- Arabella Jo
- Anastasia Jo
- Josephine Jo
5. Numerology of Jo name
J = 1 O = 6
Destiny Number (Expression Number):
7 (1+6=7)
This number represents your life purpose and the traits you must develop to fulfill your potential. With a Destiny Number 7, you are naturally analytical, introspective, and philosophical. You possess a keen intellect and a desire to understand the deeper meaning of things. In career matters, you excel in research, analysis, education, or any field requiring specialized knowledge. You prefer working independently rather than in teams. In relationships, you may be somewhat reserved, needing partners who respect your need for solitude and intellectual pursuits. You're looking for depth rather than superficial connections.
Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):
6 (O=6)
This number reveals your inner cravings and motivations. With a Soul Urge Number 6, you deeply desire harmony, balance, and to be of service to others. You value family, community, and nurturing relationships. You're naturally compassionate and responsible. In career paths, you're drawn to helping professions like teaching, counseling, healthcare, or family services. In relationships, you're loyal, supportive, and often put others' needs before your own. You seek stable, long-term partnerships where you can express your nurturing nature.
Personality Number:
1 (J=1)
This number shows how others perceive you and the traits you project to the world. With a Personality Number 1, you come across as independent, confident, and pioneering. People see you as a leader rather than a follower. You appear self-reliant and ambitious. In professional settings, you're perceived as someone who takes initiative and isn't afraid to forge new paths. In relationships, you may be seen as strong-willed and sometimes dominant, though this may differ from your inner nature reflected in your Soul Urge number.
Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.
6. Jo name in pop culture
7. Famous people named Jo
8. Names similar to Jo
Like Jo ? What about:

Generate a perfect name for your baby
Our Baby Name Generator helps you find the perfect name, sorted by gender, letter, meaning, and more. You don't need to fill out every field, just the ones you're interested in.