“he is a father” — Associated with leadership and fami
Hebrew origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#8892US 2023
9Births / yr
↓Falling
366All-time births
📅 Since 197000
How to pronounce Yoav
YOH·ay·VEE
/ˈjoʊ.ˌeɪ.ˈviː/ · stress on YOH · 3 syllables
“he is a father”
Associated with leadership and fami · Hebrew origin
What does Yoav mean and where does it come from?
Yoav (יואב) is a Hebrew name that holds the meaning 'he is a father' or 'to be favored.' It is a popular name in Israel and is derived from the Biblical name of one of King David's commanders. The name showcases a strong cultural and historical significance, often associated with leadership and fami
Cultural significance
Yoav has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of he is a father.
Peak popularity
Reached #3689 in 2008 — currently #8892 in the US.
Falling — down 1151 spots — currently #8892 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1970–2023#8892 · Top 6.6%
1970
1985
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#8892
9
▼ down 1151 · -18% births
2022
#7741
11
▼ down 663 · -8% births
2021
#7078
12
▲ up 1060 · +33% births
2020
#8138
9
▲ up 811 · +13% births
2015
#8949
8
▼ down 3839 · -56% births
2010
#5110
18
▲ up 18 · +13% births
2005
#5128
16
▲ up 1894 · +78% births
2000
#7022
9
▲ up 2276 · +80% births
1995
#9298
5
▼ down 2243
1985
#7055
5
▼ down 1628
1970
#5427
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Yoav
2010Rank #5110
18
#7258
↘Falling
1970 - 202311 years
The story of Yoav
Yoav is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 366 total births recorded, Yoav remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5427 in 1970, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #8892 in 2023.
Yoav means "he is a father" — 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 Yoav?
Yoav is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Yoav have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Yoav?
Yoav 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 Yoav?
Yoav is a three-syllable name pronounced Y OW1 EY2 V IY1. 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 Yoav?
Yoav 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.
Sibling names that pair with Yoav
For a sister
Yoav & Abigail♡
Yoav & Eliana♡
Yoav & Naomi♡
Yoav & Maya♡
For a brother
Yoav & Noah♡
Yoav & Benjamin♡
Yoav & Levi♡
Yoav & Ezra♡
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