Holding steady, #5,608 for boys today.
Popularity of Berish since 1972
Babies named Berish per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 7 |
| 1980s | 6 |
| 1990s | 23 |
| 2000s | 67 |
| 2010s | 97 |
| 2020s | 76 |
Meaning & origin
Berish is a rare Yiddish name, first recorded in U.S. births in 1972. Its popularity has remained stable, ranking 5,608 as of 2025 with an incidence of 1 in 106,755 births, peaking in 2023. The name is concentrated in New York, reflecting its use within Orthodox Jewish communities. Berish exemplifies the preservation of Yiddish linguistic heritage, often chosen by families who value traditional Ashkenazi culture. Its bear-related etymology (from the Yiddish 'ber') connects to the Hebrew name Dov, adding a layer of cultural depth.
Berish is likely a Yiddish diminutive or variant of names such as Dov Ber (Hebrew for 'bear'), as Ber itself means 'bear' in Yiddish. The suffix -ish is common in Yiddish affectionate forms. It has been used primarily within Ashkenazi Jewish communities, especially in the United States among families preserving Yiddish traditions.
Where Berish is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Berisch, Berysh
Sibling names for Berish
Names that share Berish's style, for a brother or sister.
