What does Akiva mean and where does it come from?
Akiva (אקiva) is a name of Hebrew origin. It has Biblical roots, associated with Rabbi Akiva, a prominent 2nd-century sage. While traditionally more common as a male name, Akiva has gained traction as a female name in some modern contexts. It carries a connotation of strength and spiritual protectio
Cultural significance
Akiva has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hebrew.
Peak popularity
Reached #6434 in 1973 — currently #1446 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Akiva?
Akiva works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Akiva Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Akiva Rose
Floral · soft ending
Akiva Mae
Sweet · timeless
Akiva Claire
French influence · crisp
Akiva Jane
Literary · strong
Akiva Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Akiva right now?
Rising fast — up 116 spots — currently #1446 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1446 | 125 | ▲ up 116 · +11% births |
| 2022 | #1562 | 113 | ▲ up 21 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1583 | 109 | ▲ up 13270 · +1717% births |
| 2005 | #14853 | 6 | ▼ down 6562 · -40% births |
| 1995 | #8291 | 10 | — |
The story of Akiva
Akiva is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1973. With 2,324 total births recorded, Akiva remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8291 in 1995 to #1446 in 2023. Akiva is used for both genders: 6% female and 94% male.
Names that peaked alongside Akiva in 1973:
Akiva by decade
Akiva peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 11 | |
| 1970s | 133 | |
| 1980s | 177 | |
| 1990s | 372 | |
| 2000s | 629 | |
| 2010s ★ | 863 | |
| 2020s | 139 | |
💎With 2,324 total births, Akiva is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Akiva?
DUTCH
CobusCoosJaapKobeKobusKoosSjakie
Famous people named Akiva
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Akiva (historical figure)
Akiva bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Akiva?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Akiva also consider these
How is Akiva written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Akiva
What does the name Akiva mean?
Akiva means "Hebrew" — a name rooted in Hebrew tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Akiva?
Akiva is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Akiva have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Akiva?
Akiva originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Akiva?
Akiva is a three-syllable name pronounced AH0 K IY1 V AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Akiva?
Akiva pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Hebrew heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.