Surname Hersh - Meaning and Origin
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Hersh: What does the surname Hersh mean?
Hersh is a surname of Jewish origin and is a variant of the personal name "Hersch," itself derived from "Hirsch," which, in German and Yiddish, means "deer" or "stag." It may also be linked to the Hebrew name "Tzvi." It was often used as an ornamental name in the Jewish culture to symbolize peace, happiness, and beauty, given the graceful nature of the deer. The name became a more popular first and last name among Ashkenazi Jews in Central and Eastern Europe. Like many surnames, Hersh originally might have been used to denote the characteristics or profession of a person, possibly signifying that the person was gentle or swift like a deer.
Order DNA origin analysisHersh: Where does the name Hersh come from?
The surname Hersh is of Eastern European Jewish and German origin. It is derived from the Yiddish/German name "Hirsch", meaning "deer". The name was often given to those with a quiet and timid disposition, or someone who was quick and adaptable. It could also be a habitational name from any of various places named with this word, for example, Hirschberg.
Today, it is common among Jewish communities worldwide. In terms of geographical distribution, the surname is most prevalent in the United States, followed by Israel. High density of this surname is found in major US cities especially in New York. Despite its European origins, it is less commonly found in contemporary Germany or Eastern Europe.
Variations of the surname Hersh
The surname Hersh, often used in Jewish communities, has multiple variations and spellings. It appears to be a variant of the name Hersch or Herschel, deriving from the Yiddish word for "deer". It could also possibly originate from the Hebrew name Hirsch, meaning deer.
Alternate spellings include Hersche, Hirsch, Hirsche, Hershey, Hirsh, Hursch, and Hirche. Additionally, various diminutive and patronymic forms exist, such as Hershman, Herschmann, Hershberg, Hirshman, and Hirschberg. Moreover, variations might have been regional or a result of immigration and thus situational, such as Hersz or Herskovits in Eastern Europe or Hershfield and Hershowitz in the United States.
These spellings and forms were often chosen based on personal preference, the depiction of common sounds, or to conform with the naming conventions of the regions where individuals migrated. The surname, in its various forms, can be found across Europe, North America, and Israel due to the movements and diaspora of Jewish communities. Overall, the variations and spellings of the surname Hersh reflect a rich tapestry of cultural and regional influences.
Famous people with the name Hersh
- David Hersh: professional Rugby League footballer
- Richard Hersh: CEO of consulting firm Hersh Consulting
- Josh Hersh: former NFL tight end
- Marty Hersh: Canadian-American bluegrass guitarist
- Cyrille Hersh: French film composer
- Maurice Hersh: American political science professor
- Robert Hersh: early Hollywood cinematographer
- Mara Hersh: American Jewish scholar
- Richard Hersh: Broadway theatre producer
- Sarah H. Hersh: Editor for Washington Post