What does Hershell mean and where does it come from?
'Hershell' is derived from the Yiddish variant of the Hebrew name 'Hirsch,' which means 'deer.' The name has a quaint, pastoral connotation and is often associated with gentleness and grace. Historical figures with this name include the notable American politician Herschel G. Bricker and various Jew
Cultural significance
Hershell has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of deer.
Peak popularity
Reached #908 in 1903 — currently #903 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Hershell?
Hershell works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hershell Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hershell Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hershell Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hershell Claire
French influence · crisp
Hershell Jane
Literary · strong
Hershell Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hershell right now?
Holding steady — currently #903 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #903 | 1,297 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #908 | 1,277 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #913 | 1,247 | ▲ up 4703 · +20683% births |
| 1980 | #5616 | 6 | ▼ down 731 |
| 1975 | #4885 | 6 | ▼ down 1291 · -25% births |
| 1970 | #3594 | 8 | ▼ down 533 |
| 1965 | #3061 | 8 | ▼ down 1424 · -68% births |
| 1960 | #1637 | 25 | ▼ down 84 |
| 1955 | #1553 | 25 | ▼ down 72 |
| 1950 | #1481 | 25 | ▼ down 220 · -11% births |
| 1945 | #1261 | 28 | ▼ down 201 · -26% births |
| 1940 | #1060 | 38 | ▼ down 55 · -7% births |
| 1935 | #1005 | 41 | ▲ up 385 · +46% births |
| 1930 | #1390 | 28 | ▼ down 287 · -32% births |
| 1925 | #1103 | 41 | — |
The story of Hershell
Hershell has been a beloved American name for over 125 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1899. With 1,847 total births recorded, Hershell remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1740 in 1910 to #903 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Hershell in 1903:
Hershell by decade
Hershell peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 28 | |
| 1910s | 185 | |
| 1920s ★ | 380 | |
| 1930s | 365 | |
| 1940s | 330 | |
| 1950s | 265 | |
| 1960s | 142 | |
| 1970s | 94 | |
| 1980s | 48 | |
| 1990s | 5 | |
💎With 1,847 total births, Hershell is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Hershell?
Famous people named Hershell
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Hershell (historical community leader)
Hershell led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
H(
Hershell (historical figure)
Hershell bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Hershell?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hershell also consider these
Common questions about the name Hershell
What does the name Hershell mean?
Hershell 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 Hershell?
Hershell is currently ranked #903 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hershell?
Hershell 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 Hershell?
Hershell is a two-syllable name pronounced HH ER0 Z HH EH1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Hershell a common or rare name?
Hershell is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.