Jabe

Jabe is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin, a shortened form of the biblical name Jabez (יָבֵץ), which literally means “he makes sorrow” but is traditionally associated with perseverance and blessing. Pronounced JAYB (/dʒeɪb/) in American English, the name has maintained a modest yet consistent presence in U.S. birth records. Between 2000 and 2011, annual occurrences ranged from five to twelve, corresponding to Social Security ranking positions between 803 (in 2002) and 907 (in 2008). Earlier data shows occasional clusters of five to seven registrations with ranks in the high 600s or low 700s during the mid-20th century. Jabe’s sustained, low-frequency usage suggests a subtle appeal among parents seeking a name that combines biblical heritage with distinctive brevity. Despite its modest ranking, Jabe has never topped the charts—a fact that may appeal to those disinclined toward mainstream naming fads.