Jocelyn: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Jocelyn mean and stand for?

Meaning:

French: Little Goth, member of the Gauts tribe
German: Joyful, merry

Gender: Female

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Jocelyn is pronounced JOSS-lin

Jocelyn is of French and German origin, meaning "little Goth" or "joyful". Once a masculine name, it is now a popular, elegant choice for girls, blending strength and grace with timeless sophistication.

Girl name variations

Family name origins & meanings

English: variant spelling of Joslin.

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Ron Howard

Jocelyn in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share the first name?

Jocelyn Fairchild from The Mortal Instruments - Jocelyn is the mother of Clary Fray and a former Shadowhunter. She plays a vital role in the series, as her secrets and past deeply affect the story's narrative.
Jocelyn Knight from Broadchurch - A character in the British crime drama series, Jocelyn is a retired lawyer who reluctantly returns to court to assist in a major trial. Her wisdom and resilience are key to the storyline.
Jocelyn Fray from The Infernal Devices - Though briefly mentioned in the prequel series to The Mortal Instruments, Jocelyn's background and lineage help connect the two series' intricate plots.

Popularity of the Name Jocelyn

According to Social Security Administration data, Jocelyn has consistently remained a favorite among parents in the U.S. The name peaked in popularity in the early 2000s, staying within the top 100 girl names for several years. Jocelyn has its roots in Old French, derived from the Germanic name Gautselin. Historically, the name gained prominence through medieval French nobles and has since become popular worldwide. Fictional portrayals, such as those in The Mortal Instruments series, have kept the name recognizable in modern pop culture.