Yakov is a male given name of Hebrew origin, derived from the Hebrew word "ya'akov," which means " heel" or "following." It is often associated with the biblical figure Jacob, who was born grasping his twin brother Esau's heel at birth and was later renamed Israel by God after wrestling with an angel. The name Yakov has been widely used throughout history, particularly among Jewish communities in various countries around the world. In some cultures, it may also be spelled Yaacov or Yaakov. Some notable individuals bearing this name include the Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky (born Lev Davidovich Bronstein) and the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The name Yakov can also have different forms of pronunciation and spelling across languages and cultures, such as Jake in English-speaking countries or Яков (Yakov) in Russia.
"Yackov is quite uncommon; it was given to just five babies each year from 1998 onwards."