Joyce

Joyce is a feminine given name derived from the Old French 'jois', meaning 'joy' or 'delight'. It was originally a medieval form of the name Josse, which was a derivative of the Greek name Judocus.

The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, potentially influenced by the Irish writer James Joyce, who was named after a different source. Despite its French origins, the name Joyce is now widely used in various cultures and regions.

In addition to its joyful connotations, the name Joyce has been associated with qualities like happiness, optimism, and a cheerful disposition. It has maintained a consistent presence among popular baby names over the decades, though its usage has varied across different regions and time periods.

While the name Joyce has traditionally been considered a feminine name in most cultures, some instances of it being used as a masculine name have also been recorded, particularly in certain regions or ethnic communities.