Jacob

Traditionally associated with interpretations like “supplanter” or imagery of “heel/following,” depending on scholarly framing.

Jacob is a classic masculine given name with Hebrew roots and extensive global use. In Biblical tradition, Jacob is a central patriarchal figure, and that historical-religious context explains why the name appears in many languages with related spellings. Etymologically, Jacob comes from the Hebrew name Ya‘akov. Popular explanations often connect it to interpretations like “supplanter” or to imagery involving the heel or following, but the exact linguistic analysis depends on how sources parse the ancient roots and narratives. For many families, the practical takeaway is simply that it’s a well-established Biblical name with a long usage record. In English, pronunciation is commonly JAY-kub (two syllables). It’s also nickname-friendly—Jake is extremely common—and you may see the spelling Jakob in some regions while keeping the same recognizable identity.

Etymology: From the Hebrew name Ya‘akov (Jacob in English). In Biblical tradition, Jacob is a central patriarchal figure, which helped the name spread widely.