To protect, shelter, or supplant
Akiva is a Hebrew name that shares the same root as Jacob (Yaakov). It is traditionally interpreted as meaning 'to protect' or 'to shelter,' though etymologically it is also linked to the meaning 'heel' or 'supplanter.' The name is deeply associated with the revered 1st-century sage Rabbi Akiva.
Less common today
Akiva isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #1,264 in 2020.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Oscar-winning screenwriter and producer
Comedian and member of The Lonely Island
Lead character and artist in a Haredi family · Shtisel
Influential 1st-century Jewish scholar and sage
