Berel

Berel is a masculine name of Yiddish origin, commonly used in Jewish communities, particularly among Ashkenazi Jews. It developed as a diminutive form of the Hebrew name Ber (or Dov), which means 'bear.' The bear symbolism carries connotations of strength, protection, and stoic wisdom in Jewish tradition. Berel was widely used in Eastern European Jewish communities before World War II, though its usage declined afterward as many families assimilated and adopted more mainstream names. In Hasidic and other traditional Jewish communities, Berel remains in use, often given to honor ancestors. The name carries a warm, traditional quality that connects its bearers to rich cultural heritage and family lineage.

Pronounced BEHR-ul.

As of October 2026, Berel ranked #6501 for boys in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #3696 for boys in 1960.