What does Yaacov mean and where does it come from?
Yaacov (יאקוב) is a variant of the biblical name Jacob, which has significant historical and religious importance within Judaism and Christianity. The name means 'to follow' or 'to supplant', referring to the biblical story of Jacob who grasped his brother's heel at birth. It is commonly used in Isr
Cultural significance
Yaacov has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to follow, to supplant.
Peak popularity
Reached #5351 in 1979 — currently #14184 in the US.
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Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Yaacov?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Yaacov?
Yaacov works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Yaacov Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Yaacov John
One syllable · timeless choice
Yaacov Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Yaacov Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Yaacov Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Yaacov Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Yaacov right now?
Falling — down 13330 spots — currently #14184 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2024 | #14184 | 5 | ▼ down 13330 · -100% births |
| 2023 | #854 | 1,346 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #859 | 1,326 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #864 | 1,296 | ▲ up 11910 · +25820% births |
| 2010 | #12774 | 5 | ▼ down 6210 · -50% births |
| 2000 | #6564 | 10 | ▲ up 1762 · +67% births |
| 1995 | #8326 | 6 | ▼ down 2654 · -14% births |
| 1985 | #5672 | 7 | ▲ up 490 · +17% births |
| 1980 | #6162 | 6 | — |
The story of Yaacov
Yaacov is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1979. With 121 total births recorded, Yaacov remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6162 in 1980 to #854 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Yaacov in 1979:
Yaacov by decade
Yaacov peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 7 | |
| 1980s | 38 | |
| 1990s | 11 | |
| 2000s ★ | 47 | |
| 2010s | 18 | |
| 2020s | 5 | |
💎Yaacov has only 121 total recorded births since 1979 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Yaacov?
Common
YaaYaacYaacieYaacyAcov
What names sound and feel like Yaacov?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Yaacov also consider these
Common questions about the name Yaacov
What does the name Yaacov mean?
Yaacov means "to follow, to supplant" — a name rooted in Israel 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 Yaacov?
Yaacov is currently ranked #854 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Yaacov?
Yaacov originates from Israel tradition. Israel 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 Yaacov?
Yaacov is a two-syllable name pronounced YAH-kohv. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Yaacov a common or rare name?
Yaacov is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.