Jakob - Male Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Hebrew
- Meaning
- Supplanter, holder of the heel, may God protect
- Pronunciation
- YAH-kohb
- Gender
- Male
- Variations
- Jacob, James, Jacobus, Yaakov, Jacques
- Notable Namesakes
- Jakob Böhme (German mystic and theosophist)
- Jakob Moreno (Romanian-American psychologist and psychoanalyst)
- Jakob Wassermann (German novelist)
- Jakob Bogdani (Hungarian-born Baroque painter)
Etymology & Heritage
Jakob is a traditional male name with roots anchored deeply in three major religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, where it originated from the Hebrew name Yaakov. There are various interpretations proposed for the meaning of Yaakov, among them are supplanter, holder of the heel, or may God protect.
The name traveled from Hebrew into Latin as Iacobus, which evolved into Jacobus in Late Latin. Jakob, the form we're analyzing, is primarily used in German, Dutch, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Icelandic, Slovene, and Polish languages, bestowing it with a beautifully rich and international character.
Character & Essence
Jakob overall bears a sound that is strong but graceful, simple yet international. It carries a sense of rich tradition while also maintaining unique individuality across cultures.
The name embodies qualities of steadfast determination and spiritual depth, reflecting its ancient biblical heritage while projecting an image of scholarly wisdom and creative intelligence.
Cultural & Contemporary Significance
Historical figures with the name Jakob contribute further to its enduring charm. It's the name of mystic and theosophist Jakob Böhme and the psychologist and psychoanalyst Jakob Moreno. Additionally, Jakob reminds many of award-winning authors like the German Jakob Wassermann, artist Jakob Bogdani, and numerous academics, athletes, and politicians.
It's a fitting choice for those seeking a name that encapsulates a blend of deep historical roots, cultural diversity, and timelessness. The name maintains strong usage across multiple European countries, reflecting its enduring appeal and cross-cultural adaptability.