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Joslyn

♀ Girl

Pronounced JOZ-lin /ˈdʒɒz.lɪn/High

Meaning: member of the Gauts tribeMedium

In 30 seconds: Joslyn is a variant of Jocelyn, a name of Germanic origin meaning member of the Gauts tribe. It has a gentle, flowing sound and strong medieval heritage.
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Origin MediumGermanic, French
Meaningmember of the Gauts tribe
U.S. rank (2024)#2252 ↘ Falling
2024 U.S. births83 girls (0.01% of U.S. girls)
Peak year2010
Total births (all-time)≈ 11,161

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201019302024

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Joslyn is a spelling variant of Jocelyn, which derives from the Old Germanic name Gautselin, meaning little Gaut — a member of the Germanic Gauts tribe. It was introduced to England by the Normans after 1066.

Jocelyn and its variants experienced a revival in the late 20th century. Joslyn represents a simplified spelling that became popular in the US from the 1990s onward. It sits in the family of flowing, feminine names ending in -lyn.

Did you know? The Gauts (or Goths) were a Germanic people whose tribal name eventually gave rise not only to Jocelyn/Joslyn but also to the word Gothic, spanning everything from medieval architecture to modern fashion.
Overall data confidence 78%
Hanks & Hodges, Dictionary of First Names — reference for JoslynBehind the Name: Jocelyn — name etymology referenceOxford Dictionary of First Names — reference for Joslyn

Variations

JocelynJosslynJosilynJoscelyn

Nicknames

JosJossLynnie

Famous Bearers

  • ★Jocelyn Wildenstein (1940–2024)
    Swiss-born socialite nicknamed 'Catwoman' for her extensive cosmetic surgery, known for her high-profile divorce from art dealer Alec Wildenstein.

If you like Joslyn…

Jocelyn— classic full spelling of the same name
Roslyn— similar two-syllable -lyn name with vintage feel
Carolyn— classic -lyn feminine name of same tradition
Evelyn— popular -lyn name of same vintage revival
Madelyn— modern -lyn elaboration popular in same period

Frequently Asked

What does Joslyn mean?

Joslyn means member of the Gauts tribe, from the Old Germanic Gautselin, via the Norman French Jocelyn.

How do you pronounce Joslyn?

Joslyn is pronounced JOZ-lin (/ˈdʒɒz.lɪn/), with two syllables.

Is Joslyn a girl's name?

Yes, Joslyn is used as a feminine name, a variant of Jocelyn.

How popular is the name Joslyn?

Joslyn is a less common spelling of Jocelyn, which itself has been popular in the US since the 1990s.