Yaakov
Yaakov is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning “Supplanter, heel-holder”, pronounced YAH-ah-kov. It ranked #1025 in the United States in 2025, given to 218 babies, and peaked at #853 in 1986. Common nicknames: Yanky, Kobi, Koby.
How popular is Yaakov 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 Yaakov mean, and where does it come from?
Yaakov is the Hebrew name English calls Jacob — Ya'aqov, from the word for heel, because he was born holding his twin's, and by extension the one who supplants. He wrestles an angel at the ford of the Jabbok and is renamed Israel. The unanglicised form is standard in Orthodox and Hasidic communities and in Israel. American records hold it from 1948 and it entered the top thousand in 1986, rising with Moshe, Yosef and the rest of the traditional Hebrew set.
How is Yaakov used around the world?
Yaakov is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Yaakov?
Famous People Named Yaakov
- Yaakov Shabtai — Israeli novelist and playwright
- Yaakov Agam — Israeli sculptor and pioneer of kinetic art
- Yaakov Neeman — Israeli jurist and Minister of Justice
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Sibling Name Ideas for Yaakov
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Yaakov mean?
Yaakov is a boy name of Hebrew origin meaning "Supplanter, heel-holder." Yaakov is the Hebrew name English calls Jacob — Ya'aqov, from the word for heel, because he was born holding his twin's, and by extension the one who supplants. He wrestles an angel at the ford of the Jabbok and is renamed Israel.
How do you pronounce Yaakov?
Yaakov is pronounced YAH-ah-kov. Common variations include Jacob, Yakov, Yankel.
Is Yaakov a boy name?
Yes, Yaakov is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Yanky, Kobi, Koby.