Origin and meaning of the name Jacob

Learn more about the origin of the name Jacob

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Jacob

Jacob is a common given name with Hebrew origins. In Hebrew, the name Jacob means "he who grasps the heel," a reference to the biblical story of Jacob wrestling with an angel and prevailing only after the angel touched his hip, causing him to limp thereafter. The name appears frequently in the Old Testament, most notably as the third patriarch of the Israelites and the father of the Twelve Tribes of Israel. Due to its religious significance, Jacob has been a popular name among Jews for centuries, but it is also widely used by Christians and is common in many English-speaking countries. Jacob's enduring popularity can be attributed to the strength and depth of its meaning, as well as the prominent role the character plays in Jewish and Christian scripture.

Character traits associated with the name Jacob

Jacob is often associated with qualities such as determination, strength, and reliability. Named after the patriarch in the Old Testament, this name carries historical significance, reflecting a strong connection to tradition and family values. Individuals named Jacob are typically seen as hardworking and persistent, demonstrating a steadfast nature that can help them overcome challenges. They tend to be loyal and protective towards their loved ones, showing a nurturing side when it comes to those close to them. On the other hand, they may also struggle with being too stubborn or resistant to change at times, requiring patience and understanding from those around them. Overall, Jacob is a name that signifies strength, perseverance, and a deep sense of family loyalty.

Popularity of the name Jacob

Jacob is one of the most popular male names in the United States, consistently ranking among the top ten baby names since the late 19th century. In 2020, it was ranked as the third most popular name for newborn boys. This popularity can be attributed to its biblical origins, as Jacob is a figure from the Old Testament and is well-known in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic cultures. Additionally, the name has been shared by numerous notable figures throughout history, including kings, saints, and scholars, which may contribute to its enduring appeal. Internationally, Jacob is also widely used and popular in many English-speaking countries as well as Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavian nations.

Famous people with the name Jacob

Jacob Schiff (1847-1920) was a German-born American banker who co-founded Kuhn, Loeb & Co., one of the most influential investment banks in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He played a significant role in funding Japan's modernization and industrialization during the Meiji Restoration.

Jacob Rothschild (born 1936) is a British financier, member of the Rothschild banking dynasty, and a prominent figure in the United Kingdom's political and social scene. He serves as the Fourth Baron Rothschild, inheriting his title from his grandfather, Victor Rothschild, who was also a prominent figure in British politics.

Jacob Sartorius (born 2002) is an American singer and social media personality, best known for his breakout single "Sweatshirt" and subsequent popularity on the musical.ly app (now TikTok). He has since released multiple singles and EPs, building a large following among teenage audiences.

Jacob Elordi (born 1997) is an Australian actor known for his roles in films such as The Kissing Booth (2018) and its sequel, The Kissing Booth 2 (2020). He has also appeared on television shows like Euphoria and Deep Water.

These notable individuals with the name Jacob have made significant contributions in various fields such as finance, entertainment, and politics.

Variations of the name Jacob

Jacob is a popular masculine given name of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew name Ya'aqov, which means "heel holder" or "supplanter." Over time, various versions and variations of this name have emerged in different cultures and languages.

In English, some common variations include Jacobus (Latin), Jakob (German), Yakov (Russian), Iacob (Romanian), Giacomo (Italian), and Jakub (Polish). In other languages, the name may be spelled or pronounced slightly differently. For example, in Dutch it's pronounced as Jasper, in Scandinavian countries it is written as Jakob or Jakobsen (surname), while in Welsh, it's spelled as Ieuen.

Additionally, some pet forms or nicknames for Jacob include Jack, Jock, Jake, and Coby, among others. These pet names have become popular and used independently as given names in their own right in many English-speaking countries.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the first name "jacob"
• Global distribution of the first name on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025