Peretz

Peretz is a masculine name of Hebrew origin meaning 'breakthrough' or 'burst forth.' It appears in the Bible as a son of Judah and ancestor in the lineage of King David. The name carries significant cultural importance in Jewish communities, symbolizing perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles. Historically used among Ashkenazi Jews of Eastern European descent, Peretz gained cultural prominence through the influential Yiddish writer I.L. Peretz in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While uncommon in mainstream Western usage, the name maintains steady presence in Jewish communities, particularly among those honoring their heritage. Peretz offers a distinctive sound with its strong consonants and biblical roots, appealing to parents seeking a name with both cultural significance and an uncommon quality in contemporary society.

Pronounced PER-etz.

As of October 2026, Peretz ranked #6071 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #5723 in 2016.