Jacobs Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Jacobs come from? What does the surname Jacobs mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Jacobs and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Jacobs Origin: What does the last name Jacobs mean?
The surname Jacobs is a patronymic medieval surname with origins in the given name Jacob. Derived from the Latin Jacobus, which comes from the Hebrew personal name Yaakov, meaning "heel." The surname is common in English and German-speaking countries, with the first record dating back to 1244 in the "Cartularium Monasterii de Rameseia."
YourRoots data shows that the Jacobs surname has a long history, appearing in records from England in the early 15th century and spreading globally by the 16th century. Today, Jacobs can be found in countries like the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany, France, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand, reflecting its widespread presence and diverse heritage.
Jacobs Last Name History: Where did the last name Jacobs come from?
Origin of Jacobs Surname: Where does the last name Jacobs originate from?
The surname Jacobs first appears in the YourRoots database in records from England around the early 15th century. Please bear in mind that this reflects only YourRoots data and does not account for potential variations in the spelling of the surname Jacobs or other record sources.
History of the Last Name Jacobs: How did the Jacobs surname history develop in its early days?
The "Jacobs" surname was initially found in records from England and Switzerland in the 15th century. However, the volume of records started to grow significantly in the Netherlands during the 16th century. YourRoots data also shows Jacobs surname records from multiple countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland, indicating an early global spread.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Jacobs surname today?
The frequency of the Jacobs surname increased considerably in the United States during the 17th century, surpassing other countries. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the "Jacobs" surname is quite widespread and appears in the YourRoots database for many countries worldwide. These include, but are not limited to, the United States, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany, France, Canada, Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.
Explore Jacobs last name heritage and Jacobs surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Jacobs Surame?
Gillian Jacobs
Gillian MacLaren Jacobs (October 19, 1982 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV series like Community, Love, and Invincible. She has also appeared in films such as Don't Think Twice and The Fear Street Trilogy. Jacobs studied acting at Juilliard School and has received praise for her performances on stage and screen. In addition to her acting career, she has directed films and documentaries, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry. Jacobs continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood, captivating audiences with her talent and dedication to her craft.
Marc Jacobs
Marc Jacobs (April 9, 1963 - ) is an American fashion designer known for his eponymous label and work as the creative director of Louis Vuitton. He has been a prominent figure in the fashion industry, winning awards and accolades for his innovative designs. Jacobs is also recognized for his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and his high-profile collaborations with artists and celebrities. With a career spanning decades, he has left a lasting impact on the world of fashion and continues to inspire creatives around the globe.
Josh Jacobs
Joshua Cordell Jacobs (born Feb 11, 1998) is an American professional football running back known for his time with the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and Green Bay Packers in the NFL. Jacobs excelled at the University of Alabama before being drafted in the first round in 2019. He quickly made a name for himself, earning Pro Bowl honors and leading the league in rushing yards in 2022. Off the field, Jacobs has shared his inspiring story of overcoming homelessness, capturing the hearts of fans and fellow players alike. With a bright future ahead, Jacobs continues to impress with his skills and determination on the field.
Devery Jacobs
Kawenn√°here Devery Jacobs (born Aug 8, 1993) is a Mohawk actress known for her roles in "Rhymes for Young Ghouls" and "Reservation Dogs". She has received nominations for her performances, including a Canadian Screen Awards nomination for Best Actress. Jacobs has also appeared in TV series like "American Gods" and "The Order". Outside of acting, she identifies as queer and is a member of the Bear Clan. Jacobs collaborates with her partner, Canadian filmmaker D. W. Waterson, through their production company Night is Y.
Jane Jacobs
Jane Isabel Jacobs (May 4, 1916 – April 25, 2006) was an American-Canadian journalist, author, theorist, and activist known for her influential work in urban studies. She challenged traditional urban planning practices with her book "The Death and Life of Great American Cities," advocating for neighborhood preservation over large-scale redevelopment projects. Jacobs organized grassroots efforts to protect communities and was instrumental in preventing the construction of the Lower Manhattan Expressway in New York City. Despite facing criticism from established figures in the field, her ideas eventually gained recognition and continue to shape urban planning discussions today.
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