Birthday Gift
Rewards Points
Member Coupon
Welcome 👋 😄
You are browsing as a guest.
Log in to enjoy a personalized experience, save your preferences, and more.
Yaakov
1. Yaakov name meaning and origin
Yaakov is a Hebrew name with deep historical and biblical significance. Derived from the Hebrew name יַעֲקֹב (Ya'akov), it appears prominently in Jewish religious texts, most notably as the name of the biblical patriarch who was later renamed Israel. The name is generally understood to be connected to the Hebrew word עקב ('aqev), meaning "heel," reflecting the biblical account where Yaakov was born grasping his twin brother Esau's heel (Genesis 25:26).
The etymological interpretation of Yaakov has several layers. Beyond the literal "heel-holder" meaning, scholars suggest it may also carry connotations of "supplanter" or "one who follows" - themes that align with the biblical narrative of Yaakov's life. Throughout history, the name has maintained strong cultural importance in Jewish communities worldwide, representing perseverance and the covenant between God and the Jewish people. As one of the oldest continuously used names in human history, Yaakov has been passed down through generations for over three millennia.
2. Yaakov name popularity
Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Yaakov
United States
United Kingdom
Yaakov is a traditional male name with Hebrew origins, being a variant of Jacob meaning "supplanter" or "holder of the heel." While it maintains cultural significance in Jewish communities across both the United States and United Kingdom, available data suggests the name has not ranked among the top names in either country's mainstream popularity charts in recent years.
Despite its relative rarity in popularity rankings, Yaakov continues to be chosen by families with strong cultural or religious ties to Jewish heritage. The name provides a direct connection to biblical tradition while maintaining its distinctive character, setting it apart from more common variants like Jacob or Jake in contemporary English-speaking societies.
3. Variations and nicknames of Yaakov
Yaakov, a name with ancient Hebrew origins, has spread across numerous cultures throughout history, spawning a remarkable variety of variants. In English-speaking countries, Jacob stands as the most common adaptation, while Spanish and Portuguese speakers use Santiago or Jacobo. French tradition offers Jacques, Italian presents Giacomo, Russian gives us Yakov, and German speakers use Jakob. Eastern European Jewish communities often maintained the traditional Yaakov or Yankev forms, while modern Israeli families typically use the Hebrew original. These variants demonstrate how this biblical name evolved as it traveled across languages and borders, preserving its essence while adapting to local linguistic patterns.
Beyond these formal variants, Yaakov has generated a wealth of affectionate nicknames and diminutives. In English contexts, Jake and Jack are widespread short forms, while Jamie and Jim evolved as common derivatives. Russian speakers might use Yasha as an endearing nickname, while Koba appears in Georgian tradition. In Yiddish-speaking communities, Yankl and Yankel served as familiar forms, with Koby and Kobe gaining popularity in modern Hebrew usage. American Jewish communities sometimes use the friendly diminutive Coby, while English speakers might opt for Jay as a simple initial-based nickname. The rich tapestry of diminutives and nicknames associated with Yaakov reflects both its cultural significance and its enduring popularity across diverse communities worldwide, bridging ancient tradition and contemporary usage.
4. Best name combinations with Yaakov
Middle names that pair well with Yaakov:
- Yaakov David
- Yaakov Benjamin
- Yaakov Samuel
- Yaakov Elijah
- Yaakov Nathaniel
- Yaakov Alexander
- Yaakov Gabriel
- Yaakov Solomon
- Yaakov Daniel
- Yaakov Raphael
- Yaakov Isaac
- Yaakov Mordechai
- Yaakov Moshe
- Yaakov Ezra
- Yaakov Ari
- Yaakov Judah
- Yaakov Avraham
- Yaakov Noam
- Yaakov Levi
- Yaakov Zev
Names that go well when Yaakov is used as a middle name:
- Asher Yaakov
- Micah Yaakov
- Jonathan Yaakov
- Ethan Yaakov
- Noah Yaakov
- Benjamin Yaakov
- Eliezer Yaakov
- Joshua Yaakov
- Aaron Yaakov
- Joseph Yaakov
- Samuel Yaakov
- Isaiah Yaakov
- Nathan Yaakov
- David Yaakov
- Simon Yaakov
- Daniel Yaakov
- Abraham Yaakov
- Isaac Yaakov
- Caleb Yaakov
- Eli Yaakov
5. Numerology of Yaakov name
Destiny Number (Expression Number):
1
Converting "Yaakov" to numbers: Y(7) + A(1) + A(1) + K(2) + O(6) + V(4) = 21 = 2+1 = 3
The Destiny Number 3 indicates someone who is naturally creative, expressive, and communicative. People with this number often excel in artistic fields or positions requiring social interaction. They bring joy and inspiration to others through their optimistic outlook and imaginative thinking. In relationships, they're charming and entertaining but need partners who appreciate their need for self-expression. Career paths might include writing, teaching, performing arts, or any role allowing creative freedom and social engagement.
Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):
3
Using only vowels: A(1) + A(1) + O(6) = 8
The Soul Urge Number 8 reveals inner desires for achievement, recognition, and material success. Deep down, Yaakov yearns for financial security and to make a significant impact. In relationships, they seek partners who share their ambition and appreciate their drive. They're attracted to stability and integrity in their personal connections. This number suggests a natural orientation toward leadership, business, or management roles where their organizational talents can flourish.
Personality Number:
9
Using only consonants: Y(7) + K(2) + V(4) = 13 = 1+3 = 4
The Personality Number 4 projects an image of reliability, practicality, and methodical thinking. Yaakov likely comes across as dependable, hardworking, and detail-oriented. Others see them as someone who can be counted on to follow through with commitments. In relationships, they appear loyal and consistent. This outward persona suits careers in administration, engineering, accounting, or any field requiring precision, organization, and persistence.
Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.
6. Yaakov name in pop culture
Name
Description
Yaakov Petrossian
Character in the 2016 Jason Bourne film, portrayed as a former Mossad agent who becomes an asset for the CIA
Yaakov
Character in Chaim Potok's novel 'The Chosen' (1967), a Hasidic boy who becomes friends with the protagonist despite their different religious backgrounds
Rabbi Yaakov Spritzer
Character in the Netflix series 'Unorthodox' (2020) who plays a role in the Hasidic community portrayed in the show
Yaakov
Character referenced in Leonard Cohen's song 'Who by Fire' (1974), drawing from the Jewish prayer 'Unetaneh Tokef' attributed to Rabbi Amnon of Mainz
Yaakov Biton
Character in the Israeli drama series 'Shtisel' (2013-2021), a member of the ultra-Orthodox community in Jerusalem
7. Famous people named Yaakov
Name
Description
Yaakov Smirnoff
Ukrainian-American comedian and actor known for his popular catchphrase 'What a country!' and his sitcom appearances in the 1980s
Yaakov Peri
Israeli politician and businessman who served as the director of Shin Bet (Israel's internal security service) and later became a member of the Knesset
Yaakov Zada Daniel
Israeli actor best known for his role as Eli Cohen in the Netflix series 'Fauda'
Yaakov Litzman
Israeli politician who served as the Minister of Health and as a member of the Knesset representing the United Torah Judaism party
Yaakov Shwekey
American Orthodox Jewish singer and performer of contemporary Jewish religious music who has released numerous platinum albums
Yaakov Alperon
Notorious Israeli crime boss who led one of the country's most powerful crime families until his assassination in 2008
Yaakov Katz
Israeli journalist and author who serves as the Editor-in-Chief of The Jerusalem Post newspaper
Yaakov Neeman
Israeli lawyer and politician who served as Minister of Justice and Minister of Finance in the Israeli government
Yaakov Shabtai
Current Commissioner of the Israel Police, appointed in 2021 as Israel's top law enforcement official
Yaakov Agam
Israeli experimental sculptor and artist known for his contributions to optical and kinetic art, with works displayed in major museums worldwide
8. Names similar to Yaakov
Like Yaakov ? What about:
Generate a perfect name for your baby
Our Baby Name Generator helps you find the perfect name, sorted by gender, letter, meaning, and more. You don't need to fill out every field, just the ones you're interested in.
Search by name
Looking for baby name ideas, advice, meanings, and popularity.
Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:
Popularity
All names
Sort by
Most popular
Baby name lists including Yaakov
Baby name lists including Yaakov
