Hersh is a unique and uncommon male given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "heresh," which means "copper" or "bronze." In Jewish tradition, Hersh is often associated with the biblical figure Aaron, who was the first high priest and brother of Moses. Aaron's staff, which was made of bronze, is said to have miraculously bloomed overnight, giving rise to the name Hersh as a symbol of strength, durability, and divine blessing.
The name Hersh has a rich history in Jewish culture and has been used among Ashkenazi Jews for centuries. It was often given to boys born into families with strong ties to religious tradition or those who desired a name with deep biblical significance. Some famous individuals named Hersh include Hershel Grynszpan, the Polish-Jewish man whose murder of a German diplomat is considered one of the triggers for Kristallnacht, and Herschel Smith, an American basketball player.
Today, Hersh remains a distinctive and meaningful name choice for parents seeking a unique moniker with deep historical roots. Despite its Hebrew origins, the name Hersh has gained popularity among non-Jewish families as well, who are drawn to its powerful meaning and timeless appeal.
The name Hersh has seen a varying degree of popularity over the years in the United States, with its usage fluctuating annually since the late 1950s. Between 1959 and 2023, there have been a total of 793 births registered for this name.
The earliest recorded year for the name Hersh is 1959, with 8 babies being named Hersh that year. The popularity of the name then peaked in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the highest number of births recorded in 2002 at a total of 34 newborns.
In recent years, there has been a consistent trend towards an increase in the usage of the name Hersh. From 2017 onwards, the annual birth count has remained consistently high, with at least 19 births per year. The most recent data available, from 2023, shows that the name Hersh was given to 27 newborn babies.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Hersh has waxed and waned over time, it appears to have experienced a resurgence in recent years, with an increasing number of parents choosing this name for their children.