Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Akiva

      Origin 
      Hebrew

      Meaning 
      To hold by the Heel

      Variations 
      Aivar, Akira, Aliva

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Akiva has ancient origins in the Hebrew language, derived from the Hebrew word akev meaning heel. It carries the meaning To hold by the Heel, which comes from the story of Jacob and Esau in the Book of Genesis. According to the biblical account, Jacob was born holding onto his twin brother Esau's heel, hence the name Akiva. This Hebrew name holds significant historical and religious relevance, and it has been passed down through generations.

      Throughout history, the name Akiva has appeared in various contexts. One of the most prominent figures bearing this name is Rabbi Akiva, a revered scholar and one of the key contributors to the development of Jewish law and tradition. Rabbi Akiva lived in the 2nd century CE and his teachings continue to influence Jewish thought to this day. His profound knowledge, dedication, and wisdom have made the name Akiva a symbol of intellectual prowess and religious devotion within the Jewish community.

      In modern-day usage, the name Akiva continues to be popular among Jewish individuals and families, serving as a connection to their rich historical and religious heritage. The name resonates with a sense of tradition, spirituality, and intellectual depth. Additionally, with the growing appreciation for unique and meaningful names, Akiva has also gained some recognition outside the Jewish community. Its ancient roots and profound significance make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name with depth and historical value.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Akiva.
      Eger

      is the most common surname for Akiva.

      Dina

      is the most common spouse name for Akiva.

      Joseph

      is the most common child name for Akiva.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1906 is when there were the most people born with the first name Akiva.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.