leader of the Nez Perce in their retreat from United States troops (1840-1904)
"Joseph led his people on a historic journey to avoid capture by United States troops."
(Old Testament) the 11th son of Jacob and one of the 12 patriarchs of Israel; Jacob gave Joseph a coat of many colors, which made his brothers jealous and they sold him into slavery in Egypt
"Joseph's betrayal by his jealous brothers led to his enslavement in Egypt after he wore the special coat of many colors given to him by their father Jacob."
(New Testament) husband of Mary and (in Christian belief) the foster father of Jesus
"In Christian tradition, Joseph is revered as the humble carpenter who became the earthly guardian of Jesus."
One whose chastity is above temptation (from the story of Joseph and Potiphar's wife in Genesis xxxix).
"The museum display featured an elaborate joseph, complete with a flowing cape and brass buttons that ran the length of the fabric."
A woman's riding habit worn in the 18th century with a long cape and buttons running down the front.
In plain English: Joseph is not defined as it refers to many different people, places, and things rather than being a single common noun with one specific meaning.
"Joseph was named after his great-grandfather, who had once been a teacher in the village."
Usage: The term Joseph refers to an 18th-century women's riding coat featuring a long cape, so it should not be confused with the biblical figure or common male names of that spelling. Use this word only when describing historical fashion from that specific era rather than modern clothing items.
Eleventh and favorite son of Jacob, by his wife Rachel.
"Joseph was the beloved eleventh son born to Jacob through his wife Rachel."
The name Joseph comes from the Biblical Hebrew word Yoséf, which literally means "(God) shall add." It entered English via Middle English as the name of one of Jacob's sons, reflecting this original meaning rather than describing a current action.