Yiddish Names that Start With M

Moshe is the original Hebrew form of Moses, also spelled Mosheh. In the past it was changed to names like Morris, Moe and Maurice.

Mendel is an Old World Jewish name that is also the surname of the founder of genetics.

Mende is a masculine name with multiple possible origins. In some West African cultures, particularly among the Mende people of Sierra Leone, it serves as both an ethnic identifier and personal name. Alternatively, it may derive from Germanic elements, possibly related to 'mund' meaning 'protection.' As a given name, Mende remains quite rare globally, making it a distinctive choice that carries cultural significance for those with African heritage or connections. The name's simplicity—just two syllables with a clear pronunciation—gives it an accessible quality despite its uncommon status. For parents seeking a name with cultural depth or international character, Mende offers a meaningful option that's brief yet substantial. Its rarity means most bearers of the name will define it through their own personality rather than existing associations.

A name commonly heard on New York's Lower East Side at the turn of the last century.

Moyshe is a masculine name representing the Yiddish form of Moses, a name of ancient Egyptian and Hebrew origins. In Jewish tradition, Moses (Moshe in Hebrew) was the prophet who led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and received the Torah at Mount Sinai. The Yiddish pronunciation and spelling reflects the language developed by Ashkenazi Jewish communities in Central and Eastern Europe. Moyshe carries deep cultural and religious significance in Jewish communities, particularly those with connections to Yiddish-speaking regions. While less common today than in previous generations, the name continues to be used in traditional Jewish families honoring linguistic heritage. The name conveys wisdom, leadership, and commitment to faith and community values.

Mendele is a masculine name with Yiddish origins, functioning as a diminutive or affectionate form of Mendel, which itself derives from the Hebrew name Menachem, meaning 'comforter' or 'consoler.' This name gained cultural significance through Mendele Mocher Sforim (born Sholem Yankev Abramovich), considered the founder of modern Yiddish and Hebrew literature in the 19th century. The name carries a warm, endearing quality with its diminutive ending and has traditional roots in Eastern European Jewish communities. While relatively uncommon in contemporary use outside of traditional Jewish settings, Mendele represents a connection to Yiddish culture and heritage. Its melodic three-syllable pattern and gentle sound convey a sense of kindness and wisdom, qualities associated with its Hebrew root meaning.

Motke is a masculine name of Yiddish origin, primarily used in Jewish communities as a diminutive or nickname for Mordechai (Hebrew) or Mordecai. The name Mordechai itself has Persian roots and gained significance in Jewish tradition through the biblical figure in the Book of Esther who helped save the Jewish people. Motke carries the warmth and familiarity characteristic of Yiddish diminutives, with the '-ke' suffix adding an affectionate quality. The name is most common in Eastern European Jewish communities and among descendants who maintained Yiddish naming traditions. While relatively rare in mainstream American naming, Motke represents cultural continuity and connection to Jewish heritage. The name has an authentic, old-world charm that connects modern bearers to generations of Eastern European Jewish history and tradition.

The original Hebrew form of Moses, also spelled Mosheh. In the past it was translated to names like Morris, Moe and Maurice.