Joziah is an alternate spelling of Josiah, the reforming king of Judah, updated with a Z that gives it a slightly more modern visual identity. Ranked #989 with a 2019 peak and 5,140 SSA records, it catches some of the momentum that Josiah carries while standing slightly apart from the more common spelling.
The King of Judah: Hebrew Roots
Josiah (and by extension Joziah) derives from the Hebrew Yoshiyahu, meaning "Yahweh supports" or "Yahweh heals." King Josiah reigned in the late seventh century BCE, found the Book of the Law in the Temple, dismantled pagan worship sites, and died at the Battle of Megiddo. That biography gives the name a gravitational pull in evangelical and reformed Christian circles that love Old Testament names with narrative substance.
The Z Spelling: Modern or Distinctive?
The substitution of Z for S (Joziah vs. Josiah) follows a pattern seen across American naming: Izaiah for Isaiah, Zander for Sander. The Z opening gives the name a slightly more energetic visual personality without changing pronunciation. Josiah ranks in the top 80 of American boys' names, making it broadly familiar; Joziah gives parents the same sound with a more unusual written form. The 2019 peak suggests a moment of enthusiasm before settling. Compare Joziah vs. Josiah directly.
Counter-Reading: Josiah Is Right There
For most purposes, Josiah and Joziah are the same name, and the more common spelling is more instantly legible. A Joziah will spend a lifetime clarifying the spelling. Browse 6-letter boy names if comparing options at this length.