Etymology Ossie is an English diminutive or nickname, typically used as a short form for given names beginning with "Os", particularly Oscar and Oswald. It may also represent shortened versions of Osama, Osman, Ossian, Osmond, Osbourne, Osvaldo, or even Joseph in Assyrian Neo-Aramaic. The name is mostly used in English-speaking countries, especially the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Notable Bearers Several public figures have borne the name Ossie. Among them are Ossie Davis (1917–2005), an influential African-American actor, director, and civil rights activist; Ossie Clark (1942–1996), a celebrated British fashion designer known for his flamboyant style; and Ossie Ardiles (born 1952), the Argentine football legend and manager who played for Tottenham Hotspur. Other bearers include Ossie Abeygunasekera, a Sri Lankan politician, and Ossie Asmundson, a Canadian hockey player. The name also appears in Australian sports, such as rugby league player Ossie Thomsen (pictured). A fictional usage occurs in the BBC soap opera EastEnders, where Ossie Crosbie was a love interest of Mo Harris in 1978. Cultural Significance In Assyrian Neo-Aramaic, Ossie or Osee is a diminutive for Joseph or Yousif. The name's independent use grew in English-speaking countries as a friendly, familiar variant of more formal Os-names. A notable Australian rugby league figure is Ossie Thomsen (pictured), a winger for the St. George Dragons in the early 1950s, although his given name was actually Oswald. Key Facts Meaning: Short form of Oscar, Oswald, Osman, etc., or of Joseph in Assyrian Neo-Aramaic Origin: English, also Assyrian Neo-Aramaic Type: Diminutive / Nickname Usage Regions: United States, United Kingdom, Ireland