What does Hershel mean and where does it come from?
Hershel is a diminutive form of the Hebrew name Hirsch (הִרְשִׁל), historically used among Jewish communities. It became more common in the 19th century. Prominent figures with this name include Hershel Greene, a character from the TV series The Walking Dead.
Cultural significance
Hershel has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of deer.
Peak popularity
Reached #4856 in 1918 — currently #1587 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Hershel?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Hershel?
Hershel works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hershel Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hershel Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hershel Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hershel Claire
French influence · crisp
Hershel Jane
Literary · strong
Hershel Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hershel right now?
Holding steady — currently #1587 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1587 | 613 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1592 | 593 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1597 | 563 | — |
The story of Hershel
Hershel entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. A total of 10,103 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1597 in 2021 to #1587 in 2023. Hershel is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Hershel in 1918:
Hershel by decade
Hershel peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 47 | |
| 1890s | 73 | |
| 1900s | 202 | |
| 1910s | 1,133 | |
| 1920s ★ | 2,032 | |
| 1930s | 1,756 | |
| 1940s | 1,440 | |
| 1950s | 1,004 | |
| 1960s | 652 | |
| 1970s | 411 | |
| 1980s | 306 | |
| 1990s | 263 | |
| 2000s | 361 | |
| 2010s | 386 | |
| 2020s | 37 | |
What are good nicknames for Hershel?
What names sound and feel like Hershel?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hershel also consider these
How is Hershel written in other languages?
הֶערשֶׁעל, הֶרשֶׁל
Yiddish
Common questions about the name Hershel
What does the name Hershel mean?
Hershel means "deer" — a name rooted in Hebrew tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Hershel?
Hershel is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hershel?
Hershel originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Hershel?
Hershel is a two-syllable name pronounced HH ER0 SH EH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Hershel a common or rare name?
Hershel is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.