Declining since 2018, #7,194 for boys today.
Popularity of Yidel since 1990
Babies named Yidel per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 37 |
| 2000s | 74 |
| 2010s | 116 |
| 2020s | 62 |
Meaning & origin
Yidel is a Yiddish diminutive of Yehuda (Judah), meaning 'praised'. It has been in use in the United States since at least 1990, rising to a peak rank of 7,194 in 2018. Since then, its popularity has been falling. The name is most commonly found in New York, reflecting its strong ties to Jewish communities. As of 2025, it is given to roughly 1 in 155,280 boys, making it a rare but enduring choice within its cultural context.
Yidel is a Yiddish pet form of the Hebrew name Yehuda (Judah), which derives from the Hebrew root yadah, meaning 'to praise' or 'to give thanks'. In Jewish culture, Yehuda is a significant biblical name, borne by one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The diminutive suffix -el is common in Yiddish, often conveying affection. Yidel has been used primarily in Ashkenazi Jewish communities, particularly in Eastern Europe and their diaspora.
Where Yidel is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Yidel
Names that share Yidel's style, for a brother or sister.
