Jaap is a Dutch male given name. It is a short form of the name Jacob, which means "supplanter" or "held by the heel". This name has a long history and is derived from the Hebrew name Ya'acov.
The name Jaap first appeared in the Netherlands during the Middle Ages, but it became more popular in the 20th century. It was commonly used among the Dutch nobility and royal families, with some notable figures bearing this name including Jaap van Krimpen, a famous Dutch painter, and Jaap Eden, a renowned speed skater.
Today, Jaap remains a popular choice among Dutch parents, often used as a nickname for Jacob or as a standalone given name. Despite its popularity in the Netherlands, it is relatively uncommon outside of the country. However, some variations of the name such as Jake and Jakob are widely recognized around the world. Overall, Jaap is a strong and distinctive name with a rich history that reflects its Hebrew origins.
"Five newborns named Jaap were welcomed into the world in 2022."