Josselin is a unique and elegant given name of French origin. Its meaning can be traced back to the Breton language, where "jos" means "moon" or "night", and "kelen" translates to "saint". Therefore, Josselin literally means "Saint Moon" or "Holy Night".
The name has its roots in medieval Brittany, a region in northwest France. It was popularized during the Middle Ages due to Saint Josse, also known as Saint Jouan, who was a 6th-century Irish monk and one of the seven founding saints of Brittany.
Throughout history, Josselin has been associated with nobility and valor. The town of Josselin in Morbihan, France, is named after the saint and was once home to the powerful Rohan family, who played significant roles in French politics during the Middle Ages.
Today, Josselin remains a rare yet captivating name choice for parents seeking a distinctive moniker with deep historical roots. Its unique sound and meaning make it an appealing option for those looking for something different from traditional names while still being rooted in history and culture.
The name Josslin has had varying popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 93 births recorded between 2005 and 2021. The most popular year for the name was 2012 and 2013, with 12 births each year. However, there has been a decline in its popularity since then, with only 6 births recorded in both 2016 and 2021. Despite this decrease, it is still considered an uncommon name, which may contribute to its uniqueness and charm for those who choose to bear it.