Declining since 2018.
Popularity of Yacob since 1990
Babies named Yacob per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 12 |
| 2000s | 52 |
| 2010s | 106 |
| 2020s | 32 |
Meaning & origin
Yacob is an uncommon spelling of the classic name Jacob, with its peak usage occurring in 2017. Since 2018, its popularity has been falling, reflecting a broader trend away from traditional biblical variants. Despite its low overall frequency, Yacob carries cultural significance as the standard Amharic form in Ethiopia, where it is widely used. The name has never cracked the top 1000 in the United States, but its distinct spelling offers a way to honor heritage while staying connected to the widespread Jacob tradition. Parents choosing Yacob may appreciate its biblical roots and cross-cultural resonance.
Yacob is a variant of Jacob, derived from the Hebrew name Ya'aqov. It is used in Ethiopia as the Amharic form of Jacob, reflecting the biblical patriarch. In English-speaking contexts, it is a distinct spelling variant, often chosen by families with Ethiopian heritage.
“Yacob” around the world
Where Yacob lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
15
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Yac, Yaki
Sibling names for Yacob
Names that share Yacob's style, for a brother or sister.
