Jacek is a Polish male given name of Slavic origin. It is derived from the Slavic element "jačaj," which means "strong" or "powerful." The name has been popular in Poland for centuries and was often used among the nobility.
The earliest known use of the name Jacek dates back to the 13th century, when it was borne by several historical figures. One notable example is Jacek Odrowąż, a 13th-century Polish nobleman who was revered as a saint after his death. He was known for his piety and devotion to God, and his feast day is celebrated on April 9.
Throughout history, the name Jacek has been associated with strength and power, reflecting its meaning. It has also been popular among various social classes in Poland, from nobility to commoners.
Today, Jacek remains a popular name in Poland, often used as a middle or given name. It is also found among Polish immigrants and their descendants living abroad. Despite its historical roots, the name Jacek continues to be chosen for its meaning and sound, appealing to parents looking for a strong and powerful name for their son.
The name Jacek has seen a varied trend in its popularity over the years in the United States, with periods of both growth and decline.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the name was quite uncommon, with only 5 births recorded each year from 1965 to 1972. However, there was a significant increase in its popularity during the mid-1970s, with 9 births recorded in 1977.
The popularity of Jacek fluctuated throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with numbers ranging from 5 to 10 births per year. There was another notable spike in its popularity in the early 2000s, with 22 births recorded in 2001, followed by consistent growth over the next few years, reaching a peak of 37 births in 2013.
Despite this peak, the popularity of Jacek has since declined. There were only 8 births recorded in 2015, and the numbers have remained relatively low ever since, with 6 births recorded in both 2021 and 2023.
Overall, a total of 522 babies named Jacek have been born in the United States between 1965 and 2023. While the name's popularity has varied over the years, it has nonetheless maintained a consistent presence in the country's naming landscape during this period.