Koba (Georgian: კობა) is a Georgian masculine given name, used as a diminutive of Iakob.EtymologyKoba derives from Iakob, the Georgian and Greek Old Testament form of Jacob. The name Jacob ultimately comes from the Hebrew Yaʿaqov, meaning "holder of the heel" or "supplanter," in reference to the biblical account of Jacob holding his twin brother Esau's heel at birth (Genesis 25:26) and later receiving his birthright and blessing. The name also suggests the hypothetical etymological root Yaʿaqovʾel, meaning "may God protect."History and OriginIn Georgian tradition, Koba emerged as a familiar short form of Iakob, used independently as a given name. The use of diminutives as standalone names is common in Georgian culture, often retaining the full name's biblical heritage while adding a distinctly local, informal touch.Notable BearersSeveral Georgians have borne the name Koba, particularly in politics, sports, and military:Koba Davitashvili (1971–2020), Georgian politician.Koba Gogoladze (born 1973), Georgian boxer.Koba Gurtskaia (born 1966), Georgian military officer.Koba Gvenetadze (born 1971), Georgian economist.Koba Kobaladze (born 1969), Georgian military officer.Koba Shalamberidze (born 1984), Georgian footballer.Koba Subeliani (born 1979), Georgian politician.Koba Zakadze (born 1934), a Soviet Georgian ski jumper (elder at press time).Cultural SignificanceOutside Georgia, Koba is sometimes recognized as the nickname of Joseph Stalin (Ioseb Dzhugashvili), though the name itself is older and unrelated to political ideology. The name is also found in Baltic regions such as Latvia, as seen with ice hockey player Koba Jass.Key FactsMeaning: "holder of the heel" or "supplanter" (via Iakob/Jacob).Origin: Georgian diminutive of Iakob, from Hebrew Yaʿaqov.Type: Given name.Usage Regions: Georgia, with occasional use in adjacent regions and Baltic states.