US Popularity Rank: 31

Origin: British

Meaning: Blessed, Happy; Ash tree

Asher is a gender-neutral name of Hebrew origins. Although it is primarily given to boys, the name has also become popular for girls in recent years. In the Hebrew Bible, Asher is the eighth son of Jacob and founder of the Tribe of Asher, one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel. On his deathbed, Jacob blesses Asher, and Moses says of him, “May Asher be blessed above other sons.” Perhaps for this reason, the Torah states that Asher means “blessed” and “happy”—making it a fortuitous choice for baby. Asher is particularly popular among Jewish parents and in Jewish literature. It is the main character's name in Chaim Potok’s book My Name is Asher Lev and its sequels. For a more earthy tone, Asher can also come from the Old English word asche, meaning "ash tree." Whether you want to help baby connect to your faith or their earthy roots, Asher can make for a memorable start.