Meaning & History
Jojo is a unisex diminutive of names like Joseph, Jolene, and other names beginning with Jo. Though often used as a nickname, it has become a given name in its own right, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Etymology and Meaning
Jojo derives primarily from Joseph, a name with Hebrew roots meaning 'he will add' (from yosaf 'to add, increase'). The reduplicated form Jojo adds a playful, affectionate tone. It also arises from names like Jolene, a modern American creation that combines Jo with the suffix -lene. As a simple repetition of the common nickname Jo, Jojo has a rhythmic, informal quality.
Notable Bearers
The Wikipedia entry for Jojo lists numerous bearers, including
- JoJo (singer) (born 1990), American singer and actress known for hits like 'Leave (Get Out)'.
- JoJo Billingsley (1952–2010), American singer and soloist.
- Jojo Garza, American musician and member of Los Lonely Boys.
- JoJo Hailey (born 1971), R&B singer as part of K-Ci & JoJo and Jodeci.
- Lil JoJo (1994–2012), American rapper.
- Jojo Mayer (born 1963), Swiss drummer.
The name also appears as a stage, nickname, or given name for musicians and other personalities across genres.
Cultural Significance
Jojo is strongly associated with the famous 2004 novel ''My Sister's Keeper'' by Jodi Picoult—whose main character is Anna Fitzgerald, but her older brother is named Jesse, not Jojo. More commonly, it recalls the 2012 song 'Jojo' by pop-punk band Hot Mulligan. In pop culture, the JoJo manga and anime franchise by Hirohiko Araki (starting 1987) has given the name heavy exposure; the franchise's protagonist often goes by 'JoJo' as a nickname. This has boosted the name's cool, eccentric edge among anime fans.
Key Facts
Related Names
Sources: Wikipedia — Jojo