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joss

1 American  
[jos] / dʒɒs /

noun

  1. a Chinese house idol or cult image.


joss 2 American  
[jos] / dʒɒs /

noun

British, Australian Informal.
  1. a foreman or boss.


joss British  
/ dʒɒs /

noun

  1. a Chinese deity worshipped in the form of an idol

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of joss1

1705–15; < Chinese Pidgin English < Portuguese deos < Latin deus god

Origin of joss2

First recorded in 1855–60; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The platform—via active recruitment and word-of-mouth and creator-friendly compensation streams—also attracted already-prestigious directors like Spike Lee, Joss Whedon, and Don Hertzfeldt, while also resurfacing lost media and obscure film libraries.

From Slate • Jan. 23, 2026

Officers responded to the 200 block of Dorsey Street on the evening of June 1, where they found Joss near the roadway, according to an incident report.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 19, 2025

At the time, Gonzales wrote that he and Joss had returned to the site of the actor’s San Antonio home — which had burned down in January — to check their mail.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 19, 2025

We’re also reminded of what Jonathan Joss brought to the show as John Redcorn.

From Salon • Aug. 4, 2025

"Joss," Ser Raymun Darry said to a plump balding man in a brewer's apron.

From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin

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