Jewish Names

Tov is a masculine name with Hebrew origins, meaning 'good' or 'goodness.' It represents positive qualities and virtuous character traits. While not common in Western countries, Tov has significance in Jewish communities where it's appreciated for its straightforward meaning and spiritual connotation. The name's simplicity gives it a distinctive quality that sets it apart from more elaborate alternatives. In Israel, it occasionally appears as both a first name and surname. Tov embodies the universal aspiration for goodness and can symbolize parents' hopes for their child to live a virtuous life.

Hallel is derived from the Hebrew word halall, meaning "praise."

Nuri might be a nickname for the place name Nuria, popular in Spain and Portugal as a honorific for the Virgin Mary. Nuri is also a usually-masculine name heard in the Middle East, but to the Western ear it might work for girls or boys.

Adds some zest to Rosa.

Tevel is a masculine name of Hebrew origin, meaning 'universe' or 'world.' This profound name carries cosmic significance and connects the bearer to the vastness of existence. While relatively uncommon in Western countries, Tevel has maintained a steady presence in Jewish communities, particularly in Israel. The name's meaningful etymology makes it appealing to parents seeking a name with spiritual depth and universal connotations. Tevel offers the appealing nickname options of 'Tev' or 'Tevvy.' Its uniqueness ensures that a child named Tevel will likely stand out while carrying a name rich in cultural heritage and philosophical meaning.

Yankel is a masculine name with Yiddish origins, traditionally used as an affectionate form of Jacob (Yaakov in Hebrew). Popular among Ashkenazi Jewish communities in Eastern Europe, Yankel carries warm, familial associations within Jewish cultural contexts. The name traveled with Jewish immigrants to America and other countries, though it has typically been replaced by more mainstream versions like Jacob or Jack in subsequent generations. Yankel evokes a sense of old-world charm and connection to Jewish heritage. While less common today as a formal given name, it continues to appear in Jewish literature, folklore, and as a nickname. The name resonates with cultural significance, often representing traditional Jewish values and community ties.

A middle-aged, if not elderly, name associated with Israeli statesman and onetime prime minister Begin, this is a symbolic appellation for boys born on the holiday of Tishah-b'Ab.

Spelling variation of Meital.

A strong, masculine name hardly heard outside the Hebrew-speaking community.

This rarely heard name belonged to a son of Reuben in the Bible. Might be too close to karma.

Dorie is a charming feminine name with multiple origin stories. Primarily considered a diminutive of names like Dorothy ("gift of God") or Doris (from Greek, meaning "from the sea"), Dorie has established itself as an independent given name. It reached modest popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century but has since become less common, giving it a sweet, vintage appeal. The name gained contemporary recognition through the character Dory in Disney's "Finding Nemo" and "Finding Dory," though with a different spelling. Dorie conveys a friendly, approachable quality with its soft sounds and cheerful ending. The name's brevity makes it practical while maintaining a distinct personality, appealing to parents who appreciate classic names with a playful, affectionate quality.

This common German-Jewish surname is not as common as the streamlined, gentile Fisher, although we like this spelling just as much. Both variations peaked around 2015, when Fischer was given to about 100 baby boys, and Fisher 300.

The Yiddish name from which the common matronymic Jewish surname Glick derives.

Derived from the Hebrew words shai, meaning "gift," and li, "mine." The Shaily variation is more common in Israel and the US.

Celebratory choice.

Yitzchak is the traditional Hebrew form of Isaac, a biblical name meaning 'he will laugh' or 'he will rejoice.' In the Old Testament, Yitzchak was the son of Abraham and Sarah, born to them in their old age. The name carries deep significance in Jewish tradition and has been used continuously in Jewish communities worldwide for thousands of years. While the Anglicized form Isaac is more common in English-speaking countries, Yitzchak remains popular among more traditional Jewish families. The name's pronunciation varies slightly across different Jewish communities, with Ashkenazi Jews typically pronouncing it 'YITZ-khahk' and Sephardic Jews often saying 'yitz-KHAK.' Common nicknames include Itzik, Itzy, and Zack.

Soft yet strong.

Irv is a masculine name primarily used as a diminutive of Irving, which has Old English origins meaning 'green water' or 'sea friend.' This short, punchy name gained modest popularity in the early to mid-20th century, particularly in Jewish-American communities where Irving was more common. Irv carries a vintage, mid-century charm that evokes the era of its peak usage. While rarely used as a formal given name today, it maintains recognition as a nickname. The brevity of Irv gives it a straightforward, unpretentious quality that contrasts with longer, more elaborate naming trends. It represents a connection to earlier generations while offering simplicity.

Appealing name because, in German and Yiddish, it also means "dear" or "heart".