Hershel is a unique Hebrew name derived from "heresh," meaning "deer." It signifies intelligence, grace, and swiftness, and has been popular among Ashkenazi Jews since the Middle Ages, with notable bearers like Herschel Grynszpan and Herschel W. Isaacson. Despite its Jewish origins, Hershel gained wider popularity in the early 20th century thanks to baseball player Herschell Goodwin. Today, it remains an uncommon but distinctive choice, admired for its tradition and uniqueness.