Jacob
Jacob is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning “Supplanter”, pronounced JAY-kub. It ranked #43 in the United States in 2025, given to 6,152 babies, and peaked at #1 in 1999. Common nicknames: Jake, Jay, Coby.
How popular is Jacob in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Jacob mean, and where does it come from?
Jacob comes from the Hebrew name Yaakov, traditionally interpreted as "supplanter" or "holder of the heel," referencing the biblical story of Jacob being born grasping his twin brother Esau's heel. Jacob was a patriarch of the Israelites who was later renamed Israel by God after wrestling with an angel. The name has been used continuously for thousands of years across Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions. Jacob was the number one boy name in the United States from 1999 to 2012, an extraordinarily long reign at the top.
How is Jacob used around the world?
Jacob is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 42+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Jacob?
Famous People Named Jacob
- Jacob Grimm — German linguist and folklorist
- Jacob Lawrence — American painter
- Jacob Elordi — Australian actor
Similar Names to Jacob
If you like Jacob, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Jacob
Looking for names that pair well with Jacob? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Jacob mean?
Jacob is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning "Supplanter." Jacob comes from the Hebrew name Yaakov, traditionally interpreted as "supplanter" or "holder of the heel," referencing the biblical story of Jacob being born grasping his twin brother Esau's heel. Jacob was a patriarch of the Israelites who was later renamed Israel by God after wrestling with an angel.
How do you pronounce Jacob?
Jacob is pronounced JAY-kub. Common variations include Jakob, Jacobo, Yakub.
Is Jacob a boy name?
Yes, Jacob is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Jake, Jay, Coby.