Jewish Names
- Yaakov
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"supplanting"Description:
The original Hebrew form of Jacob is resurfacing in the US charts after a several-decade-long hiatus. The Old Testament figure is considered the founding father of the Jewish nation, whose twelve sons descended into the twelve tribes of Israel.
- Estera
Origin:
Polish, Slovak, Romanian and Lithuanian form of EstherMeaning:
"star; myrtle"Description:
Ranking in the Polish Top 200, Estera is a variation on the classic Esther. Possibly deriving from Ishtar, the Near Eastern Goddess of fertility, love, and war, or from Persian, to mean "star", Estera is also associated with the myrtle trees, via Hadassah, the Biblical Esther's original Hebrew name.
- Ziv
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"brilliance"Description:
Also a synonym for the Hebrew month of Iyar, which usuually falls in May, would work and play well with others like Zev and Lev.
- Itamar
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"date palm island"Description:
In the Old Testament, Itamar (or Ithamar) was the youngest son of Aaron.
- Tamir
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"owner of many palm trees"Description:
A Near Eastern favorite, with an agreeable, evocative sound.
- Baruch
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"blessed"Description:
Think of this as the Hebrew equivalent of Benedict or Benito; best for observant Jews.
- Meital
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"dew drop"Description:
A unique option if you like the nickname Mei.
- Neveh
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"oasis"
- Nesanel
Description:
Nesanel is a masculine Hebrew name derived from the biblical name Nathaniel (נְתַנְאֵל - Netanel), which means 'gift of God' or 'God has given.' This name appears in the Torah as one of the tribal leaders of Israel. Nesanel represents a traditional Ashkenazi Jewish pronunciation and spelling variant that has been preserved in Orthodox Jewish communities. While less common in secular society, it remains popular in religious Jewish families who value its biblical heritage and spiritual significance. The name carries deep religious meaning, connecting its bearer to ancient tradition while expressing gratitude for divine blessing. Nesanel has experienced modest growth in usage in recent years, particularly within observant Jewish communities.
- Adin
Description:
Adin is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins, appearing in Hebrew, Arabic, and Bosnian traditions. In Hebrew, it means 'delicate' or 'adorned,' while in Arabic it can mean 'religious' or 'faithful.' The name appears in the Bible as a family head who returned from Babylonian exile. Adin has grown in popularity in recent decades, particularly in Israel and among Jewish communities worldwide. The name's cross-cultural presence, short length, and easy pronunciation have contributed to its rising appeal. In Bosnia and surrounding regions, it has historical significance and remains in consistent use. Adin's simplicity gives it versatility across language boundaries, while still carrying meaningful historical and religious connections. The name projects qualities of gentleness and faithfulness while remaining distinctly masculine.
- Galia
Description:
Galia is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Hebrew, it means 'wave of God' or 'God will redeem,' while in Russian and Slavic languages, it serves as a diminutive of Galina, meaning 'calm' or 'serene.' The name also has connections to ancient Gaul (modern-day France), potentially meaning 'stranger' or 'foreigner.' Galia has an elegant, international appeal with its flowing sound and relatively simple pronunciation. The name has enjoyed modest popularity in Israel, Eastern Europe, and among parents seeking distinctive yet accessible multicultural names. With its cross-cultural significance and melodic quality, Galia offers a beautiful option that feels both exotic and approachable, combining strength and femininity in its brief but impactful syllables.
- Yetta
Origin:
YiddishMeaning:
"light"Description:
Too close to yenta.
- Shulamit
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"peace"Description:
Shulamit--which has a variety of different spellings--is a serious-sounding Old Testament name that appears in the Song of Songs. Its common nickname is Shula, which is sometimes used on its own. Toni Morrison used the sleeker variation Sula in one of her novels.
- Tohar
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"pure, bright"
- Naor
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"cultured and enlightened"Description:
Certainly qualities desired for our sons.
- Michal
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"brook"Description:
In the Bible, daughter of King Saul and wife of King David.
- Violina
Origin:
Judeo-Italian variation of Viola, LatinMeaning:
"violet"Description:
More distinct than Violet, Viola, or Violeta — Violina has an indisputably beautiful and romantic sound.
- Re'em
Origin:
HebrewMeaning:
"oryx"
- Tovah
Origin:
Variant of TovaDescription:
Broadway star Tovah Feldshuh put this unusual Hebrew name on the map -- even though her birth name is Terri Sue.
- Nitai
Origin:
Hebrew, meaning unknownDescription:
A geographical name in Israel, where Mount Nitai is located.