Yusuf

Traditionally, ‘may God add’ or ‘may God increase’.

Yusuf is a masculine name written يوسف in Arabic. Its traditional meaning, ‘may God add’, comes through Hebrew Yosef. Arabic describes the form of the name, while Hebrew explains the older linguistic root. In Islamic tradition, Yusuf is a prophet, and the twelfth chapter of the Quran bears his name. This gives the name a specific religious connection beyond its meaning. Yusuf is also used in Turkish, where the usual stress differs from the Arabic pronunciation shown here. The long opening vowel and the s and f sounds give Yusuf a gentle, unhurried quality to our ear. Its two-syllable Arabic rhythm can appeal to someone who enjoys a flowing name with a clear ending; the traditional association gives it a more settled feel than a playful nickname.

Etymology: Yusuf is the Arabic form of Hebrew Yosef, the name also represented by Joseph. Its inherited meaning concerns adding or increasing; it is not a literal phrase in Arabic.