Yakov is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning "held by the heel" or "supplanter." It is derived from the Hebrew word "akhav," which means "heel." This name has significant historical and cultural importance in Judaism, as it was borne by the eldest son of Isaac and Rebecca in the Bible. Traditionally, Yakov is also associated with the story of Jacob wrestling with an angel, where he earns the name Israel. In modern times, Yakov remains a popular given name among Jewish communities worldwide.
The name Yakov experienced a significant increase in popularity over the decades, with a noticeable surge starting from the mid-1970s. The highest point was reached in 2022, with 140 births, marking a remarkable rise from the early years when annual births ranged between 5 to 9. Interestingly, the name's popularity seems to have been maintained at high levels since 2008, indicating ongoing appeal and relevance.