Discover people named Gillian Jacobsen

The last name Jacobsen is of Scandinavian origin, particularly prevalent in Denmark and Norway, where it is derived from the given name Jacob, meaning "supplanter" in Hebrew. The suffix "-sen" translates to "son of," indicating a patronymic lineage, thus Jacobsen essentially means "son of Jacob." This surname reflects the historical practice of naming children after their fathers, a common tradition in Nordic cultures. Jacobsen can be traced back to the medieval period, with roots in the Viking Age, when surnames began to emerge as a means of identifying individuals and their familial connections. Variations of the name include Jacobson, which is more common in English-speaking countries, and Jakobsen, which is often found in Norway. The name may also appear in different spellings or forms across various cultures, reflecting local linguistic adaptations. Overall, Jacobsen is a surname that encapsulates both familial heritage and the historical significance of personal names in Scandinavian society.