Rising since 1988, #2,230 for boys today.
Popularity of Shmiel since 1959
Babies named Shmiel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 10 |
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 83 |
| 2000s | 209 |
| 2010s | 348 |
| 2020s | 296 |
Meaning & origin
Shmiel is a Yiddish variant of Samuel, a name deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. In the United States, it has been recorded since 1959 and has seen a steady rise in usage, particularly since 1988. In 2025, Shmiel ranked 2230, with approximately 1 in 27,112 newborn boys receiving the name, marking its peak popularity that year. While the name does not appear in the top states, its usage reflects a revival of traditional Yiddish names within certain communities. Shmiel offers a distinct cultural connection, carrying the same timeless meaning as Samuel while preserving a unique Ashkenazi heritage.
Shmiel is a Yiddish form of the Hebrew name Samuel, derived from the Hebrew elements "shem" (name) and "El" (God), often interpreted as "God has heard." It has been used predominantly in Ashkenazi Jewish communities, particularly among Eastern European Jews, and remains a traditional name in Orthodox Jewish families.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Shmuli, Miel, Shmy
Variants: Shmuel, Shmulik, Shmulka
Sibling names for Shmiel
Names that share Shmiel's style, for a brother or sister.
