Origin
Jakov originates from the Hebrew name Jacob, meaning 'supplanter' or 'held by the heel'. The name has been adopted across various languages, including Russian, Croatian, and other Slavic languages, often spelled 'Jakov'. In the context of Australian usage, it reflects a multicultural acceptance of names stemming from European Jewish and Christian traditions, especially amongst migrant communities from Eastern Europe.
Meaning
Literal translation: 'supplanter'. In Australian English, it also conveys a sense of cultural heritage and familial connection among migrant families and their descendants.
Pronunciation
/ˈjɑːkɔf/ (YAH-kof) — stress on the first syllable, with a soft 'j' and emphasis on the long 'a' sound in Australian pronunciation, consistent with general Australian English phonetics.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Jaakov (Hebrew variant)
- Jakov (Croatian, Serbian, Russian)
- Jacob (English, biblical origin, more common in Australia)
Nicknames
- Jak
- Jaki
- Kov
Name Days
- 25 December (Christmas Day - in Orthodox tradition, celebrated by some communities with Eastern Christian background)
- 28 July (Feast of Saint Jacob in Catholic tradition)
- 15 May (Orthodox Christian feast days)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with jakov:
- Liam and Jakov (for sibling names)
- Anna and Jakov (for a double name pairing)
- Mate and Jakov (colloquial Australian pairing, emphasising friendliness)
Fun Facts
- Jakov is a popular name among Croatian and Serbian communities in Australia, often chosen to honour family heritage.
- The name Jakov is sometimes associated with the Jewish community in Australia, who observe its Hebrew roots.
- While not among the top 100 Australian boys' names, Jakov remains relatively common within specific multicultural groups.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name jakov:
- Culturally proud
- Family-oriented
- Resilient
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a classic, international aesthetic that is visually balanced and culturally versatile in Australian context, often appreciated for its historical and cultural depth.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in urban areas with higher multicultural and immigrant populations, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, particularly among Croatian, Serbian, and Jewish Australian communities.
Numerological Significance
Name number 11, considered a master number in numerology, associated with intuition, insight, and enlightenment in astrology and numerology traditions.
Astrological Connections
Associated with the zodiac sign of Taurus or Cancer for those born under its influence, often linked with traits of stability, nurturing, and determination.
Historical Context
The name Jakov has been borne by historical figures in Eastern European history and by many saints and religious figures, notably Saint Jacob. In Australia, it has gained popularity partly through the influence of Eastern European immigrants and their descendants, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the nation.
Linguistic Adaptability
Jakov is adaptable across Slavic and Jewish communities, with spelling and pronunciation variations naturally fitting into local linguistic contexts without significant modification.
Famous People Named jakov
- Jakov Degen (Australian artist)
- Jakov Janković (Serbian-Australian community leader)
- Jakov Kužma (sports figure)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2017 | 1 |
2016 | 1 |