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Name meaning & originJacob יַעֲקֹב

/JAY-kub/

HebrewBoy
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Jacob is a Hebrew boy's name pronounced /JAY-kub/. This name traditionally means 'supplanter' or 'to follow at the heel'.

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Meaning of Jacob

This name traditionally means 'supplanter' or 'to follow at the heel'.

The name is derived from the Hebrew root 'aqeb', meaning heel. In the Old Testament, Jacob was born holding his twin brother Esau's heel. The name also carries the connotation of 'one who replaces', referring to his acquisition of his brother's birthright.

Origin
Hebrew
Pronunciation
/JAY-kub/

Cultural background

It is a staple name in Western cultures and has consistently ranked among the most popular names in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada for decades.

Variations & nicknames

  • Jakob
  • Jake
  • Jacobs
  • Iago
  • Jacques
  • Giacomo

Famous people named Jacob

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Jacob the Patriarch

    A biblical figure and the ancestor of the tribes of Israel.

    Religion · Bronze Age

  • Jacob Grimm

    German philologist and one half of the Brothers Grimm.

    Literature · 19th Century

  • Jacob Riis

    Danish-American social reformer and documentary photographer.

    Journalism · Late 19th Century

  • Jacob Elordi

    Australian actor known for roles in Euphoria and Priscilla.

    Film · Modern

  • Jacob Collier

    Multi-instrumentalist and Grammy-winning musician.

    Music · Modern

  • Jacob Black

    A major character in the Twilight Saga book and film series.

    Literature · Modern

Frequently asked about Jacob

Is Jacob a biblical name?
Yes, Jacob is a prominent figure in the Book of Genesis and is considered a patriarch of the Israelites.
What is the short form of Jacob?
The most common nicknames for Jacob are Jake and Coby.
Are Jacob and James related?
Yes, both names share the same etymological root; James evolved from the Latin Iacobus, which came from the Hebrew Ya'aqov.

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