Hershel
Hershel is a Jewish boy name of Yiddish origin, meaning “Little deer”.
| Meaning | Little deer |
|---|---|
| Gender | Boy |
| Origin | Yiddish |
| Written as | הערשל |
| Pronunciation | HER-shul |
| Tradition | Jewish |
| Used in | United States, Israel |
Meaning and origin of Hershel
Hershel is a Yiddish diminutive of Hirsh, 'deer', related to German Hirsch. It is traditionally paired with the Hebrew name Naftali, because in Genesis 49 Jacob describes Naphtali as a hind let loose, and also with Tzvi, the Hebrew word for deer. Many Ashkenazi men have been known as Tzvi Hirsh or Naftali Hirsh. Hershel of Ostropol, a folk-tale trickster, is a famous character.
Is Hershel a Jewish name?
Hershel is a Jewish name used as the Yiddish partner of Tzvi or Naftali, linked to Jacob's blessing of Naphtali.
How popular is Hershel?
Used mainly in Orthodox and Hasidic families, and among older generations of Ashkenazi Jews.
Gifts with the name Hershel
- Hershel name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Hershel baby gifts (Amazon)
- Jewish baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Hershel
Names similar to Hershel
More Jewish boy names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Hershel mean?
Hershel means 'Little deer'. It is of Yiddish origin.
Is Hershel a Jewish name?
Hershel is a Jewish name used as the Yiddish partner of Tzvi or Naftali, linked to Jacob's blessing of Naphtali.
How do you pronounce Hershel?
Hershel is pronounced HER-shul.
Is Hershel a boy or girl name?
Hershel is usually a boy name.