josef

noun

jo·​sef
variants or joseph or josup
-zəp
plural -s
: an elephant fish (Callorynchus capensis) of southern Africa

Word History

Etymology

Afrikaans josef, probably after Josef (Joseph), Old Testament patriarch; from the brilliant colors of the fish, reminiscent of Joseph's coat of many colors (Genesis 37:3—Authorized Version)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near josef

Cite this Entry

“Josef.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/josef. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!