Home › Baby Names Directory › Herschel
Herschel
Herschel Pronunciation
Herschel is pronounced HUR-shəl /ˈhɜr.ʃəl/High
Meaning: From Yiddish Hirsch, 'a deer, a stag', plus the diminutive -el — 'little deer' (often paired with Hebrew Naftali)Medium
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Herschel comes from Yiddish Hirsch, 'a deer, a stag', plus the diminutive -el — 'little deer' (often coupled with the Hebrew Naftali, called 'a swift deer'). A warm, traditional name in Jewish communities (Heisman winner Herschel Walker; the Herschel astronomers).
In the U.S. it appears in Jewish families. Rare, a-little-deer at the root, and warm.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- Famous bearers coming soon.
If you like Herschel…
Browse the whole category: All Yiddish names → · All German names → · All origins →
Frequently Asked
How do you pronounce Herschel?
Herschel is pronounced HUR-shəl (/ˈhɜr.ʃəl/). Press play above to hear Herschel said aloud.
How do you say Herschel?
Herschel is said HUR-shəl (/ˈhɜr.ʃəl/). Press play above to hear Herschel said aloud.
What does the name Herschel mean?
Herschel is Yiddish for 'a deer, a stag' ('little deer').
Is Herschel a boy or girl name?
Herschel is a boy's name.
How popular is Herschel?
Herschel is a rare name in the U.S.