Note that Joe stands for Joseph. This is the S0- called“ pet name”- a name that is given to someone whom one specially likes or loves, used instead of that person's real name. Other examples are Rick standing for Richard, Tom standing for Tommy, Bill standing for William, etc. the idea that character comes firstNote that Joe stands for Joseph. This is the so-called “pet name” — a name that is given to someone whom one specially likes or loves, used instead of that person’s real name. Other examples are Rick standing for Richard, Tom standing for Tommy, Bill standing for William, etc. the idea that character comes first