Home βΊ Baby Names Directory βΊ Berl
Berl
Pronounced BURL /ΛbΙrl/Medium
Meaning: Yiddish pet form of Ber, 'a bear' (a Yiddish translation of Hebrew Dov, 'bear'); a -l diminutiveMedium
Popularity in the U.S. Β· SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880βpresent). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Berl is a Yiddish pet form of Ber, 'a bear' β itself a Yiddish translation of the Hebrew Dov, 'bear' (a symbol of strength) β with an affectionate -l diminutive, 'little bear'. A warm, sturdy, traditional name in Yiddish-speaking communities (the Zionist leader Berl Katznelson; said 'BURL').
In the U.S. it appears in Jewish families. Rare, a-little-bear at the root, and sturdy.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Berl mean?
Berl is the Yiddish 'a bear' (a pet form of Ber/Dov).
How do you pronounce Berl?
It's said BURL /ΛbΙrl/ β a single syllable.
Is Berl a boy or girl name?
Berl is a boy's name.
How popular is Berl?
Berl is a rare name, used in Jewish communities.