Surname Hersch - Meaning and Origin
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Hersch: What does the surname Hersch mean?
The surname Hersch is of Ashkenazi Jewish origin and is derived from a Yiddish personal name, Hersch, which in turn comes from the German word "Hirsch," meaning "deer" or "stag." The name could have been used as a nickname denoting someone who resembles a deer in some ways, such as being quick or timid. Over time, it evolved to become a common surname. Like many Jewish surnames, it was also often bestowed upon people when authorities required Jews to adopt fixed surnames for tax and census purposes in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. In some cases, individuals might have chosen the surname because the deer is a symbol of swiftness and gentleness in Jewish and biblical tradition. Therefore, the last name Hersch signifies a connection with this animal and the qualities it embodies.
Order DNA origin analysisHersch: Where does the name Hersch come from?
The surname Hersch is of Ashkenazi Jewish origin. It is derived from the Hebrew personal name "Hirsch," meaning deer and was often given as a name in reference to the biblical reference of Naphtali being compared to a deer. The surname is also common in Germany, having similar origins with the German word for deer, "Hirsch". Despite its origins, Hersch is not a common surname today. It can be found sparsely distributed among populations in Germany, the United States, Israel, and other countries with pockets of Ashkenazi Jewish descendants. Nonetheless, it remains rather uncommon compared to other Jewish or German surnames.
Variations of the surname Hersch
The surname Hersch is steeped in Jewish Ashkenazic heritage and its variants and spellings can be found among people in different geographical regions and languages. Variations and spellings include Hersh, Heresch, Hersk, Hersz, Hirsch, Hirsh, Hirtz, Hertz, and Herz.
These spellings have evolved into independent last names, and yet they all share a common origin. They are derived from the Yiddish personal name “Hersch”, which itself is a short form of the Hebrew name “Hershel” meaning “deer”. It was a name given typically to males.
Surnames with similar derivations such as Hirschmann, Hirschfeld, or Hirschberg can also be found, with suffixes "-mann" (man), "-feld" (field), and "-berg" (mountain) respectively. These names often indicate family origin or ancestral profession.
Across countries and cultures, the names have been localized and adapted to fit different languages and dialects. For instance, in French, it can transform to Cerf; in Hungarian to Szarvas; and in Italian to Cervo, each depicting the word "deer". Additionally, further variations might also exist within different Jewish communities due to regional dialects and cultural influences.
Famous people with the name Hersch
- Leonard David Hersch: American free lance writer, on-air commentator and philanthropist.
- Sam Hersch: former National Hockey League player (Boston Bruins).
- Jack Hersch: master electrician, author, and founding member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 498.
- Addison Hersch: American football quarterback at the University of Arizona.
- Eric Hersch: jazz pianist and composer.
- Sebastian Hersch: actor, poet, playwright, and burlesque performer.
- Eric Hersch-Goertz: American professional soccer player and Director of Coaching at Inter Atlanta FC.
- Eric B. Hersch: American entrepreneur and investor.
- Adam Hersch: attorney, practicing in New York City.
- Thomas Hersch: classical pianist, composer and conductor.