Jacob is a Hebrew name meaning “supplanter” or “holder of the heel.” Currently ranked #41 in the United States for 2024, Jacob remains one of the most enduring boy names in American history. The name carries profound biblical significance as the patriarch who became Israel. Parents worldwide choose Jacob for its timeless sound and rich cultural heritage spanning thousands of years.
Jacob Name at a GlanceClick each card to explore details
US Rank#41 (2024)
As of 2024, Jacob ranks 41st among boy names in the United States, with 6,505 births recorded according to the U.S. Social Security Administration.
OriginHebrew
Derived from the Hebrew name Ya’akov, Jacob carries over 3,000 years of documented history across Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions.
PronunciationJAY-kub
Two-syllable pronunciation with emphasis on the first syllable. IPA notation: /ˈdʒeɪ.kəb/ – recognized universally across English-speaking countries.
GenderBoy
Jacob is 99.5% male globally according to Genderize.io data. It has maintained its masculine identity throughout its 3,000-year recorded history.
SyllablesJa-cob (2)
Two distinct syllables create a balanced rhythm. The name flows smoothly in combination with most middle names and surnames.
Core MeaningSupplanter
Primary meanings include “supplanter,” “heel holder,” and “one who follows.” Refers to the biblical Jacob grasping Esau’s heel at birth.
Popularity Timeline
1999-2013#1
→
2014#4
→
2024#41
Source: U.S. Social Security Administration | Report an issue
WHAT DOES THE NAME JACOB MEAN?
Jacob carries the powerful meaning of “supplanter” or “one who follows,” derived from the Hebrew word referring to holding the heel. This name suggests determination, persistence, and the drive to overcome obstacles through strategic thinking rather than brute force. For parents seeking a name that embodies resilience and the ability to transform challenges into opportunities, Jacob offers both linguistic beauty and profound metaphorical depth. The name speaks to character formation and life’s journey.
Etymology of JacobHistorical Language Analysis
Original WordYa’akov
Written as יעקב in Hebrew script. The name appears over 3,000 times in biblical texts and ancient manuscripts.
LanguageHebrew
Ancient Semitic language of the Israelites. The name predates 2000 BCE, originating in the Near East region.
Literal MeaningHeel Holder
Also translated as “supplanter” or “one who follows”. Derived from the root word “aqab” meaning to seize by the heel.
Years Active3,000+
One of the oldest continuously used names in human history with documented evidence spanning millennia.
How the Meaning Evolved to Modern Usage
The meaning evolved from its literal heel-grasping origin to represent someone who seizes opportunity and perseveres through challenges. In biblical narrative, Jacob’s transformation from trickster to patriarch added layers of redemption and spiritual growth. Today, Jacob symbolizes determination, strategic thinking, and the ability to transform obstacles into opportunities. The name carries connotations of resilience and eventual triumph through perseverance rather than brute force.
What Is the Origin of the Name Jacob?
Jacob originated in ancient Hebrew culture over 3,000 years ago, emerging from the biblical narrative in Genesis. The name traveled through Jewish communities across the Middle East and Europe before spreading globally through Christian missionary work and later British colonization. From biblical texts to modern birth certificates, Jacob has maintained remarkable consistency in spelling and pronunciation across cultures, languages, and millennia.
Linguistic Roots of JacobEtymology Timeline
Click each language step to explore how Jacob transformed across cultures and millennia
1
HebrewYa’akov (יעקב)“Heel holder”
The original biblical form referring to Jacob grasping his twin brother Esau’s heel at birth. This imagery represents determination and the drive to prevail against odds. The root word “aqab” means to seize by the heel or to supplant.
2
GreekIakobos“Supplanter”
Greek translation appearing in the Septuagint (3rd century BCE). The meaning expanded to represent one who replaces or supersedes another. This translation influenced how Western tradition understood the name’s significance.
3
LatinIacobusEcclesiastical form
The Latin ecclesiastical form used throughout medieval Europe. Carried by numerous saints and scholars, this form spread the name across Christian Europe during the spread of Christianity and the establishment of the Catholic Church.
4
EnglishJacobModern standardized form
The modern English form emerged around the 13th century and became standardized after the Protestant Reformation. The name gained renewed popularity through the King James Bible (1611) and has remained consistently used ever since.
How Jacob Evolved Through History
Ancient EraBiblical Name2000 BCE – 500 CE
→
Medieval EraSaints & Scholars500 – 1500 CE
→
Modern EraPopular First Name1500 – Present
Is Jacob a Boy or Girl Name?
Jacob is definitively a boy’s name, with 99.5% of people named Jacob being male according to global gender distribution data. The name has maintained its masculine identity throughout its 3,000-year history across Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions. While some traditionally male names have shifted toward unisex usage in recent decades, Jacob remains overwhelmingly chosen for boys, ranking consistently among the top 50 male names in the United States and many other countries worldwide.
Is Jacob a Boy or Girl Name?Gender Distribution Analysis
Boy Name
Traditionally Masculine
Male Female
99.5%
99.5%
Male
0.5%
Female
3000+
Years Male
Historical Gender Usage
Jacob has maintained its masculine identity throughout 3,000 years of recorded history. From biblical times through medieval Europe and into the modern era, the name has been exclusively associated with males across Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions.
Cultural Perception
The name Jacob carries strong masculine associations worldwide. Parents choosing Jacob for daughters is extremely rare, with the name consistently ranked among traditional boy names in every culture where it appears.
Global Statistics
According to Genderize.io global database analysis, Jacob is classified as 99.5% male across all recorded instances worldwide. The U.S. Social Security Administration has never recorded Jacob among top female names.
Unisex Trend Analysis
Unlike names such as Jordan, Taylor, or Riley that have transitioned to unisex usage, Jacob has resisted this trend entirely. The name’s deep religious significance across multiple faiths has reinforced its masculine designation.
What Does Jacob Mean Across Religions?
Jacob holds extraordinary significance across all three Abrahamic faiths, serving as a foundational figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The name represents spiritual transformation, covenant with the divine, and the birth of nations. From the Torah’s patriarchal narratives to the Quran’s prophetic traditions, Jacob transcends mere nomenclature to embody faith, perseverance, and divine blessing across religious traditions spanning thousands of years.
Jacob Across Religions
Significance in Major Faith Traditions
Islam
High
Christianity
Central
Judaism
Foundational
Central Figure Major Significance
Islam
Permitted
Christianity
Highly Honored
Judaism
Patriarch
Jacob in Islam
Prophet Ya'qub (Peace Be Upon Him)
Prophet Ya'qub (Jacob) is mentioned 16 times in the Quran as a revered prophet of Islam. The Arabic form Ya'qub is preferred, though Jacob is also permissible (mubah) for Muslim families. He is honored as the father of the tribes and a model of patience, faith, and devotion to Allah.
Arabic: Ya'qub16 Quran MentionsPermitted Name
Jacob in Christianity
Patriarch and Father of Nations
Jacob is central to Christian theology as the patriarch whose name was changed to Israel, fathering the twelve tribes. Genesis 32:28 records his wrestling with the angel, symbolizing spiritual transformation and perseverance. Multiple saints and apostles bear this name or its variant James throughout Christian history.
Genesis 25-50Renamed IsraelHighly Honored
Jacob in Judaism
Third Patriarch of the Jewish People
Ya'akov is the third and final patriarch of the Jewish people, son of Isaac and Rebecca. His name remains perpetually active in Jewish life through daily prayers and Torah readings. Jewish boys are commonly named Ya'akov today, continuing an unbroken 3,000-year tradition connecting them to their ancestral heritage.
Hebrew: Ya'akovThird PatriarchWidely Used
How Popular Is the Name Jacob?
Jacob currently ranks #41 in the United States for 2024, representing a remarkable journey from 14 consecutive years as America's #1 baby name (1999-2013) to its present position. The name's sustained popularity reflects its timeless appeal, crossing generational and cultural boundaries. Despite declining from its peak, Jacob remains firmly established in the top 50, with over 6,500 American boys receiving the name in 2024 alone.
How Popular Is the Name Jacob?
US and Global Ranking Analysis
Current Rank
#41
United States 2024
Births
6,505
Boys in 2024
Peak Years
14
Years at #1
Popularity Trend Visualization
#1
#4
#16
#41
#45-50
Peak (1999-2013) Decline Phase Current (2024)
US Popularity Timeline
#371880
1880
First recorded SSA data year
The Social Security Administration began tracking baby names in 1880. Jacob debuted at rank #37, demonstrating immediate popularity in American naming culture from the very beginning of official record-keeping.
#11999-13
1999 - 2013
Historic 14-year reign at top
Jacob achieved an unprecedented milestone: 14 consecutive years as America's #1 boy name. This remains the longest reign at #1 for any boy's name in modern SSA history, reflecting the name's universal appeal across demographics.
#42014
2014
First year out of top spot
After 14 years at #1, Jacob dropped to #4 in 2014. This marked the beginning of a gradual decline as newer names like Noah and Liam gained popularity among American parents.
#412024
2024
Current position - 6,505 births
Jacob currently ranks #41 with 6,505 American boys receiving the name in 2024. This represents a sweet spot: familiar and respected, yet no longer ubiquitous in every classroom.
#45-502026
2026 Projection
Estimated gradual decline continues
Based on current trends, Jacob is projected to rank between #45-50 in 2026. The name remains firmly established in the top tier while becoming less common, offering parents a classic choice without overuse.
Global Popularity
UK
United Kingdom
#32
ONS, 2024
CA
Canada
#28
Stats Can, 2023
NL
Netherlands
#15
SVB, 2024
What This Means for Your Child
Jacob's shift from #1 to #41 means your child will have a classic, recognized name without being one of five Jacobs in his classroom. The name remains familiar and respected while becoming less ubiquitous, offering the perfect balance between tradition and individuality.
The Unique Value of the Name Jacob
Jacob stands apart as one of the few names that has remained continuously popular for over 3,000 years across multiple continents and religions. Few names can claim the distinction of being simultaneously a biblical patriarch, a Nobel Prize scientist, a famous artist, and a beloved children's character. This extraordinary versatility makes Jacob a name that opens doors in virtually any social or professional context.
Key Facts About Jacob
What Makes This Name Special
Ancient Roots
3,000+ Years
Jacob appears in texts dating back over 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously used names in human history with documented evidence across multiple civilizations.
Historic Achievement
14 Years at #1
Jacob held the #1 position in America for 14 consecutive years (1999-2013), the longest reign of any boy's name in modern SSA history.
Cultural Moment
Global Recognition
From Twilight's Jacob Black to biblical narratives, the name has captured cultural imagination across generations, media formats, and continents worldwide.
Modern Appeal
Timeless Quality
The name works equally well for a toddler, a professional adult, or an elder, with a timeless quality that transcends generational trends and fashion cycles.
Expert Rating
Professional Name Assessment
Sound & Flow 9/10
Two clear syllables, easy pronunciation across languages
Uniqueness 6/10
Popular choice, but declining usage improves individuality
Cultural Heritage 10/10
Unmatched 3,000-year history across major world religions
Ease of Spelling 9/10
Universally recognized spelling with no confusion
Overall Score
8.5
out of 10
Excellent Choice
Excellent (9-10) Good (7-8) Average (5-6)
Personality & Vibe
Cultural Name Perception Analysis
Traditional
85%
Approachable
90%
Strong
80%
Determined
Faithful
Classic
Biblical Heritage
Religious and spiritual connection
Jacob is instantly recognized as a biblical name across all cultures. People associate it with faith, tradition, and moral values. The name carries weight and dignity that other modern names may lack.
Trustworthiness
Reliability and honesty
The name Jacob projects an image of someone dependable and grounded. People tend to assume a Jacob is honest, reliable, and someone they can count on in both personal and professional contexts.
Professional Image
Career-ready impression
Jacob sounds established and professional. The name transitions seamlessly from childhood to boardroom, never appearing too trendy or too old-fashioned. It works on resumes, business cards, and introductions.
Family Oriented
Traditional family values
Jacob suggests strong family connections and traditional values. The name implies someone who values heritage, respects traditions, and maintains close relationships with family members across generations.
* Cultural perception analysis - not scientific research or prediction of individual personality
Pros and Cons of Jacob
Balanced Assessment for Parents
Strengths
4 benefits
Timeless Appeal
Works beautifully from infancy through adulthood, never feeling childish or dated. The name ages gracefully with your child at every life stage.
Easy Spelling
Universally recognized spelling eliminates pronunciation confusion across cultures. Your child will never have to spell their name repeatedly.
Rich Heritage
Deep religious and cultural significance across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The name carries thousands of years of meaningful history.
Professional Ready
Commands respect in professional settings while remaining warm and approachable. Works perfectly on resumes, business cards, and formal introductions.
Considerations
4 factors
Common Usage
May encounter other Jacobs in school and social settings due to sustained popularity. However, this is decreasing as the name ranks lower.
Biblical Complexity
The biblical Jacob's story includes morally complex moments. Some parents may want to discuss the name's nuanced history with their child.
Limited Nicknames
Jake is the primary nickname with fewer creative diminutive options compared to names like Alexander or Elizabeth.
Trending Downward
Has declined from #1 to #41, though this may actually appeal to parents seeking a classic name without overuse.
Our Verdict
Jacob offers parents a rare combination of ancient heritage and modern accessibility. While no longer the most unique choice, it provides unmatched versatility across cultures, religions, and life stages. An excellent choice for families valuing tradition and universal recognition.
IS JACOB A GOOD BABY NAME IN 2026?
YES, Jacob remains an excellent choice for babies born in 2026.
Final Verdict
Is Jacob the right choice for your baby?
A+
Overall Rating
#41
2024 Rank
6,505
2024 Births
High
Timelessness
Historical Significance
Jacob has over 3,000 years of documented history, appearing in biblical texts and maintaining continuous use across cultures and generations.
Cultural Versatility
Recognized in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, with variants like Jakob, Giacomo, and Yakub used worldwide.
Professional Appeal
Straightforward spelling and pronunciation make it workplace-ready. The name transitions seamlessly from childhood to professional settings.
Key Metrics
Popularity Stability
92%
Spelling Ease
98%
Gender Clarity
99%
Name Longevity
95%
Sources
U.S. Social Security Administration | Behind the Name | Chabad.org
The following analysis reflects cultural naming associations and perceived character traits - not scientific research or prediction of individual personality. Jacob has long been associated with determination, faith, and transformation throughout its storied history. The biblical narrative of Jacob's journey from trickster to patriarch offers a powerful metaphor for personal growth and redemption. These cultural associations shape how others may perceive the name.
Cultural Personality Associations
Click each card to explore the cultural perceptions and character traits associated with the name Jacob throughout history.
Emotional Spectrum
Inner World & Feelings
Culturally, Jacob is associated with emotional resilience and depth. The name suggests someone who experiences life intensely, processes challenges thoughtfully, and emerges stronger from difficulties. This perception draws from the biblical Jacob's transformative journey from struggle to triumph.
ResilientDeep Thinker
Personal Integrity
Values & Principles
The name carries associations of someone who values honesty and justice. While the biblical Jacob's early life included deception, his later transformation represents redemption and principled living. This narrative arc appeals to parents who value growth and moral development in their children.
PrincipledRedemptive
Relationships
Social & Family Bonds
Jacob suggests someone who forms deep, lasting bonds with others. The biblical Jacob's devotion to Rachel symbolizes enduring love and commitment. Culturally, the name implies loyalty and dedication in personal relationships and family life, making it appealing for parents who value strong family connections.
LoyalDevoted
Career & Life
Professional Path
Professional associations for Jacob span leadership, scholarship, and creative fields. Notable bearers include Nobel Prize scientists, renowned artists, and successful entrepreneurs. The name's classic sound suggests competence and reliability in professional contexts, projecting a trustworthy image.
LeaderAchiever
Cultural perception analysis - not scientific research or prediction of individual personality
Name Pairings for Jacob
Jacob's two-syllable structure and soft consonant ending create excellent pairing opportunities with names of varying lengths and rhythms. The name's classic tone allows it to complement both traditional and contemporary choices. Whether you seek a nickname for everyday use, a distinguished middle name, or sibling names that harmonize beautifully, Jacob offers remarkable versatility for building a cohesive family name collection.
Nicknames for Jacob
Popular diminutives and affectionate forms
Jake
Jay
Coby
Jack
Jaco
Pro Tip
Jake is the most common nickname and works well from toddlerhood through adulthood. Jay offers a more concise option.
Jacob has been carried by remarkable individuals across centuries, from Nobel Prize-winning scientists to influential artists and folklorists whose work continues to shape our world. The name has graced historical figures, creative minds, and pioneers who transformed their respective fields. These notable Jacobs demonstrate the name's versatility and the diverse paths those who bear it may pursue.
Notable People Named Jacob
Inspirational figures who shaped history, science, and culture
5
Notable Figures
3+
Centuries
4
Fields
Modern Era1920-2013Nobel Laureate
Francois Jacob
French biologist who won the 1965 Nobel Prize for genetic regulation
French biologist who won the 1965 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for groundbreaking discoveries in genetic regulation. His work at the Pasteur Institute transformed our understanding of how genes function and are controlled within living cells.
Why it matters for the name Jacob
Demonstrates that the name is associated with intellectual achievement and scientific excellence at the highest level.
German philologist who compiled Grimm's Fairy Tales
German philologist and folklorist who, with his brother Wilhelm, compiled Grimm's Fairy Tales. His contributions to linguistics include Grimm's Law, describing sound changes in Indo-European languages. The collection remains foundational to children's literature worldwide.
Why it matters for the name Jacob
Links the name to storytelling, cultural preservation, and academic scholarship that continues to influence millions.
Danish-American journalist who pioneered photojournalism
Danish-American journalist and social reformer who pioneered photojournalism. His work "How the Other Half Lives" exposed tenement conditions and spurred housing reforms in New York City. His legacy continues to inspire documentary photographers and social justice advocates.
Why it matters for the name Jacob
Associates the name with social conscience, documentation, and using one's voice to improve society.
Renowned African-American painter whose "Migration Series" documented the Great Migration. He became the first Black artist with work acquired by the Museum of Modern Art. His distinctive style and historical narratives transformed American art.
Why it matters for the name Jacob
Connects the name to artistic excellence, cultural documentation, and groundbreaking achievement in the arts.
Parents drawn to Jacob typically appreciate names with biblical heritage, classic appeal, and enduring popularity. If Jacob resonates with your naming preferences, you may find these related options equally compelling for their similar blend of tradition and accessibility.
In the Bible, Jacob means "supplanter" or "heel holder," referring to the patriarch Jacob who was born grasping his twin brother Esau's heel. The name symbolizes someone who perseveres and ultimately prevails, as Jacob transformed from trickster to the father of the twelve tribes of Israel.
Is Jacob a good name for a baby boy?
Yes, Jacob is an excellent name for a baby boy. It combines 3,000 years of history with modern appeal, works well across cultures and religions, and offers easy spelling and pronunciation. While no longer #1, its current #41 ranking means your child will have a recognized but not overused name.
What are common nicknames for Jacob?
The most common nickname for Jacob is Jake, used from childhood through adulthood. Other nicknames include Jay, Coby, Jack, and occasionally Jaco. Jake remains the most popular and universally recognized diminutive.
Is Jacob a unisex name?
No, Jacob is not considered a unisex name. It is 99.5% male according to global data and has maintained its masculine identity throughout its 3,000-year history across all major cultures and religions.
How popular is the name Jacob in 2024?
Jacob ranks #41 in the United States for 2024, with approximately 6,505 births recorded. While this represents a decline from its historic 14-year reign at #1 (1999-2013), Jacob remains firmly in the top 50 and continues to be a popular choice for American parents.
Sources
U.S. Social Security Administration | Behind the Name | Chabad.org | Bible Hub
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
