Meaning & History
Josefa is a feminine given name used in Spanish and Portuguese, deriving as the feminine form of Joseph. The name ultimately traces back to the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning "he will add" or "may he add", from the root yasaf (to add, to increase). In the Old Testament, Joseph is the eleventh son of Jacob and Rachel, sold into slavery by his brothers but later rising to power in Egypt. In the New Testament, Saint Joseph is the husband of Mary and the earthly father of Jesus.
Etymology and History
Josefa is directly derived from the male name José, the Spanish and Portuguese form of Joseph, with the addition of the feminine suffix -a. The name became common in the Spanish and Portuguese-speaking world during the late Middle Ages, when the cult of Saint Joseph grew in popularity, particularly in Spain and Italy. The name Josefina and the diminutive Pepita are also derived from Josefa.
Notable Bearers
Historically, several members of European royalty bore the name: Infanta Francisca Josefa of Portugal (1699–1736), daughter of King Peter II; Infanta Josefa Fernanda of Spain (1827–1910); and Infanta Maria Josefa of Spain (1744–1801). In the arts, Spanish-Portuguese painter Josefa de Óbidos (1630–1684) is known for her still lifes and religious works; Colombian novelist Josefa Acevedo de Gómez (1803–1861) was an early feminist writer; and German author Josefa Berens-Totenohl (1891–1969) wrote regional literature. Contemporary figures include Venezuelan herpetologist Josefa Celsa Señaris (born 1965).
Cultural Significance
In Spanish and Portuguese cultures, Josefa is a classic name that has declined in popularity during the 20th century, but remains in use. Its variant forms, such as the diminutive Pepita (also a nickname for Josefina), are still common. The masculine counterparts José, Pepe, and Zé remain among the most popular male names in the Iberian peninsula and Latin America.
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Josefa (given name)