What does Yentl mean and where does it come from?
Yentl is a feminine name derived from the Hebrew name 'Yentel', which is a diminutive form of 'Yohanah'. The name gained prominence due to the 1970 short story and later the 1983 film 'Yentl', starring Barbra Streisand. It is often associated with intelligence, strength, and a quest for knowledge. I
Cultural significance
Yentl has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god is gracious.
Peak popularity
Reached #5665 in 1985 — currently #1172 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Yentl?
Yentl works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Yentl Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Yentl Rose
Floral · soft ending
Yentl Mae
Sweet · timeless
Yentl Claire
French influence · crisp
Yentl Jane
Literary · strong
Yentl Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Yentl right now?
Holding steady — currently #1172 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1172 | 1,028 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1177 | 1,008 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1182 | 978 | ▲ up 4483 · +7423% births |
| 1985 | #5665 | 13 | — |
The story of Yentl
Yentl is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1984. With 51 total births recorded, Yentl remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5665 in 1985 to #1172 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Yentl in 1985:
💎Yentl has only 51 total recorded births since 1984 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Yentl?
Famous people named Yentl
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Yentl (historical figure)
Yentl bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
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Yentl (historical community leader)
Yentl led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Yentl?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Yentl also consider these
How is Yentl written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Yentl
What does the name Yentl mean?
Yentl means "God is gracious" — 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 Yentl?
Yentl is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Yentl?
Yentl 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 Yentl?
Yentl is a two-syllable name pronounced Y EH1 N T AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Yentl a common or rare name?
Yentl is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.