Yaakov
Yaakov is a Jewish boy name of Hebrew origin, meaning “Held by the heel; supplanter”.
| Meaning | Held by the heel; supplanter |
|---|---|
| Gender | Boy |
| Origin | Hebrew |
| Written as | יַעֲקֹב |
| Pronunciation | yah-ah-KOHV |
| Tradition | Jewish |
| Used in | Israel, United States |
Meaning and origin of Yaakov
Yaakov is the Hebrew form of Jacob. Genesis explains it through the word akev, 'heel', because Jacob was born grasping the heel of his twin Esau, and the related verb later gives the sense 'to supplant'. Some scholars read it instead as a shortened prayer name meaning 'may God protect'. Jacob, renamed Israel, is the third patriarch, and his twelve sons became the tribes of Israel.
Is Yaakov a Jewish name?
Yaakov is one of the central names of the Hebrew Bible, borne by the patriarch Jacob in Genesis. It has been used by Jewish families for thousands of years, often in the Yiddish-influenced forms Yankel or Kobi as nicknames.
How popular is Yaakov?
Widely used among religious and traditional Jewish families in Israel and the diaspora.
Gifts with the name Yaakov
- Yaakov name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Yaakov baby gifts (Amazon)
- Jewish baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Yaakov
Names similar to Yaakov
More Jewish boy names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Yaakov mean?
Yaakov means 'Held by the heel; supplanter'. It is of Hebrew origin.
Is Yaakov a Jewish name?
Yaakov is one of the central names of the Hebrew Bible, borne by the patriarch Jacob in Genesis. It has been used by Jewish families for thousands of years, often in the Yiddish-influenced forms Yankel or Kobi as nicknames.
How do you pronounce Yaakov?
Yaakov is pronounced yah-ah-KOHV.
Is Yaakov a boy or girl name?
Yaakov is usually a boy name.