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Herschel
1. Herschel name meaning and origin
The name Herschel originates from Yiddish, representing a diminutive form of the German word 'Hirsch,' which means 'deer' or 'stag.' This animal symbolism carries cultural significance in traditional Jewish families where the name first gained popularity. The name's etymology can be traced back to ancient Germanic languages, where animal-based names were common and often reflected admirable qualities such as grace, strength, and agility.
Herschel gained wider recognition beyond Jewish communities in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly after the fame of Sir William Herschel, the renowned German-born British astronomer who discovered Uranus in 1781. The surname-turned-first-name pattern is common in many cultures, and Herschel represents this linguistic evolution perfectly. Though relatively uncommon in modern naming trends, Herschel maintains a dignified, classic quality that connects its bearers to a rich cultural and historical heritage.
2. Herschel name popularity
Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Herschel
United States
United Kingdom
Herschel is a distinctly masculine name with German and Yiddish origins, meaning "deer" or derived from the Germanic element "heru" meaning "army, warrior." The name has maintained a presence in the United States throughout history but has never achieved widespread popularity in recent decades.
While Herschel lacks specific ranking data in the provided information, it has historical significance through notable bearers like astronomer Sir William Herschel, who discovered Uranus, and football star Herschel Walker. The name carries a vintage charm that gives it character and distinction, appealing to parents seeking uncommon yet recognizable options with historical depth.
3. Variations and nicknames of Herschel
The name Herschel, with its rich Germanic origins, has evolved across cultures and generations, producing numerous variants that reflect linguistic differences and regional pronunciations. In German-speaking regions, the name appears as Herschell or Hirschel, maintaining its strong consonant sounds while adapting to local dialects. The Hebrew variant Hershl represents the name's Jewish heritage, while Hirsh and Hersh showcase slight vowel shifts common in Eastern European communities. In Slavic countries, one might encounter Gershel or Gershl, where the initial consonant changes reflect phonetic adaptations. The anglicized version Hershel has gained popularity in English-speaking countries, removing the hard 'c' sound for easier pronunciation.
As with many traditional names, Herschel has inspired a collection of affectionate nicknames and diminutives used by family and friends. The most common nickname is Hersh, a simple truncation that maintains the name's distinctive sound. Other popular diminutives include Hershy and Hershey, which add a playful element while remaining recognizable. For a more casual approach, some opt for Heck or simply H as a quick reference. Among family circles, especially in Jewish communities, endearing forms like Hersheleh or Hershl are commonly used. The nickname Shel has also emerged as a modern, shortened variant appealing to contemporary naming trends. In professional settings, one might introduce themselves as Hersch, a subtle variation that maintains the name's gravitas while softening its pronunciation. These diverse variants and nicknames demonstrate the enduring adaptability of Herschel across generations and cultural contexts.
4. Best name combinations with Herschel
Middle names that pair well with Herschel:
- Herschel James
- Herschel William
- Herschel Alexander
- Herschel Benjamin
- Herschel Theodore
- Herschel Frederick
- Herschel Augustus
- Herschel Elliott
- Herschel Maxwell
- Herschel Nathaniel
- Herschel Abraham
- Herschel Solomon
- Herschel Isaac
- Herschel David
- Herschel Samuel
- Herschel Elijah
- Herschel Winston
- Herschel Lawrence
- Herschel Edmund
- Herschel Jonathan
Names that go well when Herschel is used as a middle name:
- Joseph Herschel
- Thomas Herschel
- Charles Herschel
- Edward Herschel
- Robert Herschel
- George Herschel
- Arthur Herschel
- Felix Herschel
- Daniel Herschel
- Ezra Herschel
- Abram Herschel
- Malcolm Herschel
- Bernard Herschel
- Julian Herschel
- Victor Herschel
- Caleb Herschel
- Franklin Herschel
- Leonard Herschel
- Gideon Herschel
- Zachary Herschel
5. Numerology of Herschel name
Destiny Number (Expression Number):
4
H(8) + E(5) + R(9) + S(1) + C(3) + H(8) + E(5) + L(3) = 42 = 4+2 = 6
The Destiny Number 6 suggests you are naturally nurturing, responsible, and service-oriented. You likely excel in careers requiring compassion and harmony-building such as teaching, counseling, healthcare, or family businesses. In relationships, you tend to be loyal and supportive, often putting others' needs before your own. You have a strong sense of duty and create stable, harmonious environments wherever you go.
Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):
6
Vowels: E(5) + E(5) = 10 = 1+0 = 1
With a Soul Urge Number 1, your innermost desire is for independence, leadership, and originality. You're driven by ambition and the need to forge your own path. You thrive when able to innovate and direct projects. In relationships, you seek partners who respect your autonomy while supporting your vision. You may struggle with compromise but offer strength and protection to loved ones.
Personality Number:
5
Consonants: H(8) + R(9) + S(1) + C(3) + H(8) + L(3) = 32 = 3+2 = 5
Your Personality Number 5 projects adaptability, versatility, and freedom-seeking energy to others. People see you as adventurous, quick-thinking, and versatile. You appear comfortable with change and capable of handling multiple tasks simultaneously. This number suggests you present yourself as someone who values freedom and dislikes routine. In professional settings, you're viewed as resourceful and progressive, while in relationships, you're seen as exciting but potentially restless.
Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.
6. Herschel name in pop culture
Name
Description
Herschel Walker Cuyler Them Dawgs Is Hell Don't They
A recurring character in the Adult Swim animated series Squidbillies, known for his violent tendencies and Georgia Bulldogs fandom
Herschel Shmoikel Pinchas Yerucham Krustofsky
The full name of Krusty the Clown from The Simpsons, one of the show's most iconic characters
Herschel Weingrod
A character in the 1984 film Gremlins, played by Dick Miller, who owns a bar called Dorry's Tavern
Herschel Greenbaum
The main character played by Seth Rogen in the 2020 comedy film 'An American Pickle' who falls into a vat of pickles and wakes up 100 years later
Herschel
A supporting character in the TV series The Walking Dead, portrayed by actor Aldis Hodge, who appears in the prison arc of the show
7. Famous people named Herschel
Name
Description
Herschel Walker
Former NFL running back who played for the Dallas Cowboys, Minnesota Vikings, and other teams, Heisman Trophy winner, and later a mixed martial artist and politician
Herschel Bernardi
American actor known for his roles in 'Peter Gunn' and as the voice of Charlie the Tuna in StarKist commercials
Herschel Savage
American adult film actor and director with a career spanning several decades in the industry
Herschel Grynszpan
Historical figure whose assassination of a German diplomat in 1938 was used as a pretext for Kristallnacht
Herschel Krustofsky
Better known as 'Krusty the Clown,' a fictional character from the animated television series 'The Simpsons'
Herschel Sparber
American character actor known for appearances in films like 'The Devil's Advocate' and TV shows including 'Law & Order'
Herschel Weingrod
American screenwriter known for films including 'Trading Places,' 'Twins,' and 'Kindergarten Cop'
Herschel Feibel Shosteck
American market researcher and telecommunications analyst known for founding The Shosteck Group
Herschel Goldhirsch
Better known as Harry Gold, an American laboratory chemist who was convicted as a Soviet spy in the 1940s Manhattan Project atomic bomb espionage case
Herschel Shmoikel Pinchas Yerucham Krustofski
Krusty the Clown's full name from 'The Simpsons,' a beloved character in American pop culture
8. Names similar to Herschel
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