Last Name Jacobo

The last name "Jacobo" is primarily of Spanish and Portuguese origin. It is derived from the given name "Jacques" or "Jaime," which were versions of the name "James" used in those languages. The surname "Jacobo" emerged as a patronymic surname, meaning it was originally used to denote a person's descent from a male ancestor named "Jacobo" or "Jacob." Over time, it became a hereditary surname passed down from generation to generation.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Jacobo

The meaning and origin of the last name Jacobo

The surname Jacobo is of Spanish and Portuguese origin. It is derived from the given name "Jacobo," which is the Spanish and Portuguese form of the name "Jacob." The name Jacob ultimately comes from the Hebrew name "Yaakov," meaning "supplanter" or "holder of the heel." In the biblical context, Jacob is known as the son of Isaac and Rebecca and the younger brother of Esau. He later becomes the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. As a surname, Jacobo suggests that the original bearer or their ancestors might have been descendants of someone named Jacob. It is likely that the surname originated during the medieval era when surnames started to be adopted to distinguish individuals within larger communities. Over time, the surname Jacobo has spread to various parts of the world due to migration and colonization, particularly to regions influenced by Spanish and Portuguese culture and language.

Geographical distribution of the last name Jacobo

The last name Jacobo is relatively common and can be found in various parts of the world. Its geographical distribution is primarily found in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Mexico and the United States, where there is a large population of people with Hispanic heritage. In Mexico, the name Jacobo is prevalent throughout the country, with concentrations in states such as Jalisco, Veracruz, and Chiapas. In the United States, states with significant Hispanic populations, such as California, Texas, Florida, and Arizona, also have a sizable number of individuals with the last name Jacobo. Additionally, the name can be found in other Spanish-speaking countries, including Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru, where it is likely that populations with this surname have either migrated or settled over time. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Jacobo reflects the movement and settlement patterns of people with Spanish ancestry across different regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Jacobo

The last name Jacobo has several variations and spellings, showcasing the diverse ways it has been recorded over time. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, transcription errors, or simplified versions for convenience. Some common variations include Jacobi, Iacobo, Iacob, Iakob, Yakob, and Yakov. Other spellings may incorporate different combinations of vowels and consonants, such as Iakobov, Iacobovic, Yakubov, or Yakubovich. Additionally, in some regions, the last name Jacobo might have further modifications reflecting the local language or cultural traditions. For instance, in Spanish-speaking areas, it could be spelled with an accent as Jacóbo, while in Italian, it could be rendered as Giacobo. Regardless of the spelling or variation, these different renditions all ultimately stem from the same origin, making them distinctive but interconnected representations of the family name Jacobo.

Famous people with the last name Jacobo

There are several famous individuals who share the last name Jacobo. One notable figure is Mario Jacobo, a renowned Mexican soccer player who made significant contributions to the sport. Known for his exceptional skills as a midfielder, Mario Jacobo played for prestigious teams in the Mexican league, capturing the admiration of fans with his technique and vision on the field. Additionally, Carolina Jacobo is a well-known artist of Guatemalan descent, acclaimed for her unique and captivating paintings. Her vibrant and expressive artworks have been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums around the world, earning her recognition and praise within the art community. Another notable individual is Miguel Jacobo, a respected journalist and political commentator from Spain. His insightful analysis and significant contributions to the field of journalism have earned him a substantial following and respect throughout the country.

Genealogical research on the last name Jacobo

The last name Jacobo is derived from the Hebrew personal name "Yaakov" meaning "supplanter" or "one who follows". It has ancient origins and is believed to have been introduced to the Western world by Jewish communities during the Middle Ages. As a surname, Jacobo is widely found in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Spain, Mexico, and the Philippines. The earliest recorded instances of the Jacobo surname can be traced back to the 16th century, specifically in the Mexican region of Oaxaca, where it was affiliated with notable individuals from Spanish conquistadors to indigenous leaders. Over time, various branches of the Jacobo family dispersed across the globe, resulting in diverse lineages and connections throughout different nations. Genealogical research into the Jacobo surname can uncover fascinating ancestral stories, shedding light on the migration patterns and accomplishments of this distinguished name throughout history.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Jacobo"
• Global distribution of the surname 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 : 11 April 2025

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