List of English words of Yiddish origin

{{redirect|Plotz|the municipality|Plötz|the surname|Ploetz}} {{distinguish|Yiddish words used in English|Yinglish}} {{short description|none}} {{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}} {{more citations needed|date=April 2020}}

This is a list of words that have entered the English language from the [[Yiddish]] language, many of them by way of [[American English]]. There are differing approaches to the [[romanization]] of [[Yiddish orthography]] (which uses the [[Hebrew alphabet]]); thus, the spelling of some of the words in this list may be variable (for example, {{transliteration|yi|shlep}} is a variant of {{transliteration|yi|schlep}}, and {{transliteration|yi|shnozz}}, {{transliteration|yi|schnoz}}).

==Background== Yiddish is a [[Germanic language]], originally spoken by [[Jews]] in [[Central Europe|Central]] and later [[Eastern Europe]], written in the Hebrew alphabet, and containing a substantial substratum of [[Hebrew language|Hebrew]] words as well as numerous loans from [[Slavic languages]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bartleby.com/68/23/6623.html|title=Bartleby.com: Great Books Online – Quotes, Poems, Novels, Classics and hundreds more|website=bartleby.com|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050330/http://bartleby.com/68/23/6623.html|archive-date=16 October 2007}}</ref> For that reason, some of the words listed originated in Hebrew or Slavic languages, but have entered English via Yiddish.

Yiddish is closely related to modern German, and many Yiddish words have German [[cognate]]s; in some cases it is difficult to tell whether a particular word was borrowed from Yiddish or from German. Yiddish is written in the Hebrew alphabet, and Yiddish words may be [[transliterated]] into [[Latin alphabet|Latin]] spelling in a variety of ways; the transliterated spelling of Yiddish words and the conventional spelling of German are usually different, but the pronunciations are frequently the same (e.g., {{langx|yi|שוואַרץ|shvarts|label=none}} in Yiddish is pronounced the same way as {{langx|de|schwarz|label=none}} in German).

==List of words== These English words of Yiddish origin, except as noted, are in the online editions of the ''[[Oxford English Dictionary]]'' (OED), ''[[The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language]]'' (AHD), or the ''[[Merriam-Webster]]'' dictionary (MW). The parentheses-enclosed information at the end of each word's entry starts with the original Yiddish term in [[Hebrew script]], the [[Latin script]] [[transliteration]], and the literal English translation (if different from the English definition given earlier). This may be followed by additional relevant languages (mostly Hebrew and German). One or more dictionary references appear at the end.

{{List TOC Letters |x1= A |x2= B |x3= C |x4= D  |x6= F |x7= G |x8= H   |x11= K |x12= L |x13= M |x14= N  |x16= P   |x19= S |x20= T  |x22= V   |x25= Y |x26= Z }}

=== A === * '''Alter kacker''' or '''alte kacker''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|אַלטער קאַקער}}): literally "old crapper". Sometimes abbreviated as AK or A.K.;<ref>{{Cite web |title=alter kacker |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/alte-kacker_n?tab=factsheet#12044191 |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=Oxford English Dictionary |language=en}}</ref> equivalent to English "old fart".{{sfn|Eisenberg|Scolnic|2006|p=5}}

=== B === *'''[[Bagel]]''': A ring-shaped bread roll made by boiling or steaming, and then baking, the dough (from {{Langx|yi|בײגל|beygl}}, from Old High German ''boug'' with diminutive ''-el'' suffix).<ref>{{Cite web |title=bagel, n. |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/bagel_n?tab=meaning_and_use |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250503093827/https://www.oed.com/dictionary/bagel_n?tab=meaning_and_use |archive-date=3 May 2025 |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.oed.com |language=en |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 15, 2026 |title=Definition of BAGEL |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bagel |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> * '''[[Balabusta]]''', balabosta, balebosta (Yid. {{lang|yi|בעל־הביתטע}}): a Jewish mistress of the house; usually applied with positive connotations.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of BALABOSTA |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balabosta |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''[[Blintz]]''': A sweet cheese-filled crepe ({{Langx|yi|בלינצע|blintse|label=none}}, from {{Langx|be|блінцы|blincy|pancakes}} (plural)).<ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: blintz |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=blintz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170714212648/https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=blintz |archive-date=2017-07-14 |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *'''[[Brit milah|Bris]]''': The circumcision of a male child. ({{Langx|yi|ברית|bris|label=none}}, from {{Langx|he|ברית|brith|covenant}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=bris |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/bris_n?tab=factsheet#104771567 |access-date=March 18, 2026 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=February 11, 2026 |title=Definition of BRIS |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bris |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> * '''Broigus''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|ברוגז}} ''broygez''): (n) a bitter feud of anger; (adj.) angry, irritated; from Hebrew {{lang|he|ברוגז}} (''berogez'', "angry").<ref>{{Cite web |title=broigus |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/broigus_adj |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Boychik}}'''Boychik''': Boy, young man. (English ''boy'' + Eastern Yiddish: {{Langx|yi|טשיק|-chik|label=none}}, diminutive suffix (from [[Slavic languages|Slavic]]).<ref>{{Cite web |date=2000 |title=boychik |url=http://bartleby.com/61/49/B0434950.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050232/http://bartleby.com/61/49/B0434950.html |archive-date=2007-10-16 |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=bartleby.com}}</ref> * '''Bubbeh, bubbe''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|באָבע}}): grandmother; elderly woman.<ref>{{Cite web |title=bubbe |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/bubbe_n?tab=factsheet#10484201 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> * '''Bubbeleh''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|באָבעלע}}): a term of endearment; esp. for a young child or elderly relative.<ref>{{Cite web |title=bubbeleh |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/bubele_n?tab=meaning_and_use#1216345360 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Bupkis}}'''Bupkis''' (also '''Bupkes''', '''Bupkus''', '''Bubkis''', '''Bubkes'''): Emphatically nothing, as in 'He isn't worth bupkis' ({{Langx|yi|באָבקעס|bobkes|label=none}}; of uncertain origin;<ref>{{Cite web |title=bupkis |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/bupkis_n?tab=factsheet#139316114 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> perhaps originally meaning '[goat] droppings', from a word meaning 'beans', of Slavic origin)<ref name="JDF">{{cite news |last=Horwitz |first=Bert |title=A Hill of Bupkis |url=https://forward.com/articles/2611/a-hill-of-bupkis/ |newspaper=The Jewish Daily Forward |location=New York |date=19 August 2005 |access-date=28 November 2010}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of BUBKES |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bubkes |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=bubkes |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/bupkis_n?tab=factsheet#139316114 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref>

=== C === * '''[[Cholent]]''', cholnt, tcholent, etc. (Yid. {{lang|yi|טשאָלנט}} ''tsholnt''): traditional slow-simmering [[Sabbath stew]] prepared overnight.<ref>{{Cite web |title=cholent |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/cholent_n?tab=factsheet#117547950 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: cholent |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=cholent |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of CHOLENT |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cholent |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''[[Chutzpah]]''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|x|ʊ|t|s|p|ə}}: Nerve, gall, guts, balls, daring, self-confidence, audacity, effrontery ({{Langx|yi|חצפּה|khutspe|label=none}}, from Hebrew).<ref>{{Cite web |title=chutzpah. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://www.bartleby.com/61/8/C0350800.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070328215648/http://www.bartleby.com/61/8/C0350800.html |archive-date=2007-03-28 |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=www.bartleby.com}}</ref>

=== D === *'''Daven''': To recite Jewish liturgical prayers ({{Langx|yi|דאַוונען|davnen|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: daven |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=daven |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *'''Dreck, drek''': Worthless, distasteful, or nonsensical material ({{Langx|yi|דרעק|drek|label=none}}, from Middle High {{Langx|de|drec||rubbish}}; cognate with German: {{Langx|de|Dreck||dirt, filth|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: dreck |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=dreck |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 4, 2026 |title=Definition of DRECK |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dreck |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''[[Dybbuk]]''': The [[malevolent spirit]] of a dead person that enters and controls a living body until exorcised ({{Langx|he|דבּוק|dibbuk|a latching-onto|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=dybbuk. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://bartleby.com/61/22/D0442200.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050157/http://bartleby.com/61/22/D0442200.html |archive-date=2007-10-16 |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=bartleby.com}}</ref> *'''[[Dreidel]]''': {{langx|yi|דרײדל|dreydl}}, a four-sided spinning top.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dreidel |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/dreidel_n?tl=true |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref>

=== F === *{{anchor|Fleishig}}'''Fleishig''': Made with meat or poultry ({{Langx|yi|פֿליישיק|fleyshik|meaty|label=none}}, from {{transliteration|yi|fleysh}}, 'meat'; cf. German: {{Langx|de|fleischig||meaty|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of FLEISHIG |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fleishig |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> It is usually used to denote a class of [[kosher]] products.<ref name="chabad mfp" /> * '''Frum''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|פֿרום}}): adjective; religious, observant of Judaism laws (cf. German "Fromm" = pious).<ref>{{Cite web |title=frum |url=https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=frum |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref>

=== G === [[File:Chocolate-Gold-Coins.jpg|thumb|180px|[[Hanukkah gelt|Gelt]]]]

*{{anchor|Ganef|Gonif}}'''Ganef''' or '''Gonif''': A thief, scoundrel, rascal ({{Langx|yi|גנבֿ|ganev/ganef|thief|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|yi|גנב|gannav|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=ganef. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://bartleby.com/61/46/G0034600.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050227/http://bartleby.com/61/46/G0034600.html |archive-date=2007-10-16 |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=bartleby.com}}</ref> *'''[[Hanukkah gelt|Gelt]]''' {{IPAc-en|g|ɛ|l|t}}: Money in general; also the [[Chocolate coin|chocolate coins]] given to children on [[Hanukkah]] ({{Langx|he|געלט|gelt|money|label=none}}; cognate with German: {{Langx|de|Geld||money|label=none}}; related to 'gold').<ref>{{Cite web |title=gelt 1. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://bartleby.com/61/33/G0073300.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050202/http://bartleby.com/61/33/G0073300.html |archive-date=2007-10-16 |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=bartleby.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=February 28, 2026 |title=Definition of GELT |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gelt |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''[[Glitch]]''': A minor malfunction ({{Langx|yi|גליטש|glitsh|label=none}}, from {{Langx|yi|גליטשן|glitshn|slide|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|glitschen||slither|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=glitch. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://bartleby.com/61/12/G0151200.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050147/http://bartleby.com/61/12/G0151200.html |archive-date=2007-10-16 |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=bartleby.com}}</ref> *'''[[Golem]]''': A man-made humanoid; an android, Frankenstein monster ({{Langx|yi|גלם|goylem|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|גלם|gōlem|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=golem |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/golem_n?tab=factsheet#2839881 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of GOLEM |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/golem |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''[[Goy]]''': A [[gentile]], term for someone not of the Jewish faith or people ({{Langx|yi|גוי|label=none}}; plural {{Langx|yi|גויים|label=none}} or {{Langx|yi|גוים|goyim|label=none}}; from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|גויים|label=none}} or {{Langx|he|גוים|goyim|nations|label=none}}, plural of {{Langx|he|גוי|goy|nation|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=goy. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://www.bartleby.com/61/1/G0210100.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071217071625/http://www.bartleby.com/61/1/G0210100.html |archive-date=2007-12-17 |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.bartleby.com}}</ref>

=== H === *{{anchor|Haimish}}'''Haimish''' (also '''Heimish''') {{IPAc-en|ˈ|h|eɪ|m|ɪ|ʃ}}: Home-like, friendly, folksy ({{Langx|yi|היימיש|heymish|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|heimisch|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=haimish. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://www.bartleby.com/61/35/H0013500.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070421103000/http://www.bartleby.com/61/35/H0013500.html |archive-date=2007-04-21 |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=www.bartleby.com}}</ref>

=== K === [[File:Lower East Side - Schimmel Knish 2.jpg|thumb|180px|[[Knish]], a baked snack, commonly filled with potato]]

*'''[[Kasha]]''': [[buckwheat]] porridge or grains (prefabricated for a porridge). Originally a Slavic term, it probably entered into English usage with Jewish emigrants, especially the plural form {{langx|yi|קאַשי|rtl=yes|translit=kashi}}.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Steinmetz |first=Sol |title=Dictionary of Jewish Usage: A Guide to the Use of Jewish Terms |isbn=0-7425-4387-0 |pages=42}}</ref> *'''Kibitz''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|k|ɪ|b|ɪ|t|s}}: To offer unwanted advice, e.g. to someone playing cards; to converse idly, hence a ''[[kibitzer]]'', gossip ({{Langx|yi|קיבעצן|kibetsn|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|kiebitzen|label=none}}, may be related to German: {{Langx|de|Kiebitz||[[lapwing]]|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kibitz |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/kibitz_n?tab=factsheet#1276653650 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=February 18, 2026 |title=Definition of KIBITZ |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kibitz |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> * '''[[Kishka (food)|Kishke]]''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|קישקע}}, the word is borrowed from Slavic): A kind of sausage stuffed with finely chopped potatoes, carrots, onions, spices, etc., rather than meat; in the plural ''kishkes'' informally means 'abdomen'.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of KISHKES |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kishkes |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kishkes |url=https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=kishkes |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: kishkes |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=kishkes |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *'''[[Klezmer]]''', instrumental musical tradition of the Ashkenazi Jews of Central and Eastern Europe.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Klezmer |url=https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=klezmer |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *'''{{vanchor|Klutz}}''': A clumsy person ({{Langx|yi|קלאָץ|klots|wooden beam|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Klotz||block|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=klutz |url=https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=klutz |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of KLUTZ |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/klutz |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: klutz |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=klutz |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *'''[[Knish]]''' {{IPAc-en|k|ə|ˈ|n|ɪ|ʃ}}: A doughy snack stuffed with potato, meat, or cheese ({{Langx|yi|קניש|label=none}}), from {{Langx|pl|knysz}}.<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 19, 2026 |title=Definition of KNISH |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/knish |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: knish |url=https://ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=knish |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *'''[[Kashrut|Kosher]]''': Correct according to Jewish law, normally used in reference to Jewish dietary laws; (slang) appropriate, legitimate (originally from {{Langx|he|כּשר|kašer/kasher|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=kosher. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://bartleby.com/61/42/K0104200.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050222/http://bartleby.com/61/42/K0104200.html |archive-date=2007-10-16 |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=bartleby.com}}</ref> * '''[[kugel]]''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|קוגעל}}): a casserole or pudding, usually made from egg noodles or potatoes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: kugel |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=kugel |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *'''{{vanchor|Kvell}}''': To express great pleasure combined with pride ({{Langx|yi|קװעלן|kveln|label=none}}, from an old Germanic word; cognate with German: {{Langx|de|quellen||swell|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=kvell |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/kvell_v?tab=meaning_and_use#39822918 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of KVELL |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kvell |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''{{vanchor|Kvetch}}''' {{IPAc-en|k|ə|ˈ|v|ɛ|tʃ}}: to complain habitually, gripe; as a noun, a person who always complains ({{Langx|yi|קװעטשן|kvetshn|press/squeeze|label=none}}; cognate with German: {{Langx|de|quetschen||squeeze|label=none}}).<ref>{{cite web |title=What Does "Kvetch" Mean? |url=https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/4029348/jewish/What-Does-Kvetch-Mean.htm |website=Chabad |access-date=January 26, 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of KVETCH |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kvetch |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Wex |first=Michael |title=Born to Kvetch |publisher=[[St. Martin's Press]] |year=2005 |location=New York}}</ref>

=== L === [[File:Latkes.jpg|thumb|180px|[[Latkes]], potato pancakes]]

*'''[[Latke]]''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|l|ɑː|t|k|ə}}: [[Potato pancake]], especially during [[Hanukkah]] ({{Langx|yi|לאַטקע|label=none}}, from {{Langx|ru|ладка|ladka|pancake (colloquial; regular: [[wikt:оладья|оладья]])}} or {{Langx|uk|оладка|oladka|pancake/fritter}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=latke. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://bartleby.com/61/51/L0065100.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050237/http://bartleby.com/61/51/L0065100.html |archive-date=2007-10-16 |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=bartleby.com}}</ref> *'''[[Litvak (disambiguation)|Litvak]]''': A Jewish person historically residing in the territory of the former [[Grand Duchy of Lithuania]], or a dialect of Yiddish used by them ({{Langx|yi|ליטוואַק|litvak|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Litvak |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/litvak_n?tab=factsheet#38994646 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *'''[[Lox]]''': Cured [[salmon]], sometimes referred to as [[lox#Similar products|Nova]], often used loosely to refer to [[smoked salmon]] ({{Langx|yi|לאַקס|laks|salmon|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Lachs|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=lox |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/lox_n3?tab=factsheet#38941491 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 16, 2026 |title=Definition of LOX |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lox |access-date=2026-03-20 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref>

=== M === * '''Mama-loshen / mame-loshen / mame-loshn ''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|מאמאלושן}}): one's first or native language, from Yiddish ''mama'' (mother) plus Hebrew {{lang|he|לשון}} ''lashon'', tongue or language; usually meaning "Yiddish"<ref>{{Cite web |title=mameloshen |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/mameloshen_n?tab=factsheet#12455474 |access-date=May 10, 2026 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref>

*'''[[Mamzer]]''': Bastard (from Yiddish/Hebrew: {{Langx|he|ממזר|mamzer|label=none}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mamzer |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/mamzer_n?tab=factsheet#38341371 |access-date=May 10, 2026 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref>

*'''[[wikt:maven|Maven]]''': Expert, aficionado ({{Langx|yi|מבֿין|meyvn|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|מבין|mevin|understands|label=none}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Maven |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/maven_n?tab=factsheet#37883708 |access-date=May 10, 2026 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=May 1, 2026 |title=Definition of MAVEN |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maven |access-date=2026-05-10 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: maven |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=maven |access-date=2026-05-10 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref>

*'''[[Mazel tov]]''', also '''Mazal tov''': Congratulations! ({{Langx|yi|מזל־טובֿ|mazl-tov|label=none}}, from Hebrew {{Langx|he|מזל טוב|mazzāl ṭōv|label=none}}: {{Langx|he|מזל|mazzāl|fortune|label=none}} or 'luck' + {{Langx|he|טוב|ṭōv|good|label=none}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mazeltaov |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/mazeltov_n?tab=factsheet#37419192 |access-date=May 10, 2026 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref>

*{{anchor|Megillah}}'''Megillah''': A tediously detailed discourse ({{Langx|yi|מגלה|megile|lengthy document, scroll [esp. the [[Book of Esther]]]|label=none}}, from Hebrew {{Langx|he|מגלה|məgillā|scroll|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Megillah |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/megillah_n?tab=factsheet#37600323 |access-date=May 10, 2026 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of MEGILLAH |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/megillah |access-date=2026-05-10 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> Usually used in American English as "the whole Megillah" meaning an overly extended explanation or story.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The whole megillah |url=http://www.worldwidewords.org/qa-mag1.html |access-date=2026-05-10 |website=www.worldwidewords.org |language=en-gb}}</ref>

*'''[[Mensch]]''': An upright person; a decent human being ({{Langx|yi|מענטש|mentsh|person|label=none}}; cognate with German: {{Langx|de|Mensch||human|label=none}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mensch |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/mensch_n?tab=factsheet#37262850 |access-date=May 10, 2026 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of MENSCH |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mensch |access-date=2026-05-10 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref>

*{{anchor|Meshuga}}'''Meshuga''', also '''Meshugge''', '''Meshugah''', '''Meshuggah''' {{IPAc-en|m|ə|ˈ|ʃ|ʊ|g|ə}}: Crazy ({{Langx|yi|משגע|meshuge|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|משוגע|m'shuga'|label=none}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Meshuga |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/meshuga_adj?tab=factsheet#37371911 |access-date=May 11, 2026 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of MESHUGA |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/meshuga |access-date=2026-05-11 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> Also used as the nouns '''meshuggener''' and '''meshuggeneh''' for a crazy man and woman, respectively.{{cn|date=May 2026}}

*{{anchor|meshugaas|meshegas}}'''Meshugaas''', also '''Mishegaas''' or '''Mishegoss''' {{IPAc-en|m|ɪ|ʃ|ə|ˈ|g|ɑː|s}}: Crazy or senseless activity or behavior; craziness ({{Langx|yi|משוגעת|meshugaas|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|משוגעת|məšugga‘ath|label=none}}, a form of the above)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Meshugas |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/meshugas_n?tab=factsheet#37372173 |access-date=May 11, 2026 |website=OED}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: mishegoss |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=mishegoss |access-date=2026-05-11 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref>

*{{anchor|Milchig}}'''Milchig''': made with milk or dairy products ({{Langx|yi|מילכיק|milkhik|milky|label=none}}, from {{Langx|yi|מילך|milkh|milk|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|milchig|label=none}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of MILCHIG |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/milchig |access-date=2026-05-11 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> Usually, it is used to denote a class of [[kosher]] products.<ref name="chabad mfp">{{Cite web |title=What Do "Milchig, Fleishig and Pareve" Mean? |url=https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/3878331/jewish/What-Do-Milchig-Fleishig-and-Pareve-Mean.htm |access-date=2026-05-11 |website=www.chabad.org |language=en}}</ref>

*'''[[Minyan]]''': The quorum of ten adult (i.e., [[Bar and Bat Mitzvah|age 13 or older]]) Jews that is necessary for the holding of a public worship service; in [[Orthodox Judaism]] ten adult males are required, while in [[Conservative Judaism|Conservative]] and [[Reform Judaism]] ten adults of either sex are required. ({{Langx|yi|מנין|minyen|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|מנין|minyān|label=none}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Minyan |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/minyan_n2?tab=factsheet#36581179 |access-date=May 11, 2026 |website=OED}}</ref>

*{{anchor|Mishpocha}}'''Mishpocha''' {{IPAc-en|m|ɪ|ʃ|ˈ|p|ɒ|x|ə}}: relative or extended family member ({{Langx|yi|משפּחה|mishpokhe|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|משפּחה|mišpāḥā|label=none}})<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mishpocha |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/mishpocha_n?tab=factsheet#12376259 |access-date=May 11, 2026 |website=OED}}</ref>

=== N === *{{anchor|Naches}}'''Naches''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|n|ɑː|x|ə|s}}: The feeling of pride and/or gratification in 1: the achievements of another; 2. one's own doing good by helping someone or some organization ({{Langx|yi|נחת|nakhes|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|נחת|naḥath|contentment|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Naches |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/naches_n?tab=factsheet#12908712 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Narrischkeit}}'''Narrischkeit''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|n|ɑː|r|ɪ|ʃ|k|aɪ|t}}: Foolishness, nonsense ({{Langx|yi|נאַרישקייט|narishkeyt|label=none}}, from {{Langx|yi|נאַריש|narish|foolish|label=none}} + {{Langx|yi|־קייט|-keyt|ness|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|närrisch||foolish|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Narrischkeit |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/narrischkeit_n?tab=factsheet#35346707 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Nebbish}}'''Nebbish''', also '''Nebbich''': An insignificant, pitiful person; a nonentity (from interjection {{Langx|yi|נעבעך|nebekh|poor thing!|label=none}}, perhaps from Czech ''nebohý'' or other Slavic source.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nebbish |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/nebbish_adj?tab=factsheet#34983137 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of nebbish - Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary |url=http://m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary/nebbish |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930025103/http://m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary/nebbish |archive-date=2007-09-30 |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=m-w.com}}</ref> *{{anchor|Noodge}}'''Noodge''', also '''Nudzh''': To pester, nag, whine; as a noun, a pest, whiner, or anxious person ({{Langx|yi|נודיען|nudyen|label=none}}, from Polish ''nudzić'' 'to bore' or Russian ''nudit<nowiki>'</nowiki>'' 'to wear out'.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Noodge |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/noodge_v?tab=meaning_and_use#12204119 |website=Oxford English Dictionaries}}</ref> *{{anchor|Nosh}}'''Nosh''': Snack (noun or verb) ({{Langx|yi|נאַשן|nashn|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|naschen|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nosh |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/nosh_n?tab=factsheet#34235258 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 11, 2026 |title=Definition of NOSH |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nosh |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *{{anchor|Nu}}'''Nu''': A multipurpose interjection analogous to "well?", "so?", or "so what?" ({{Langx|yi|נו|nu|label=none}}, perhaps akin to Russian: {{Langx|ru|ну|nu|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nu |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/nu_int?tab=factsheet#34366025 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Nudnik}}'''Nudnik''': A pest, "pain in the neck"; a bore ({{Langx|yi|נודניק|nudnik|label=none}}, from the above {{Langx|yi|נודיען|nudyen|label=none}}; cf. Polish or Russian: {{Langx|pl|nudny||boring, annoying|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nudnik |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/nudnik_n?tab=factsheet#34392965 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of NUDNIK |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nudnik |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref>

=== O === *'''Oy''', '''[[Oy vey]]''': Interjections of grief, pain, or horror ({{Langx|yi|אוי וויי|oy vey|oh, pain!|label=none}} or 'oh, woe!'; cf. German: {{Langx|de|oh weh||oh, woe!|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=oy vey |url=https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=oy+vey |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: oy vey |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=oy+vey |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref>

=== P === *'''[[Pareve]] / parve''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|p|ɑː|r|ə|v}}: Containing neither meat nor dairy products ({{Langx|yi|פּאַרעווע|pareve|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=pareve |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/pareve_adj?tab=factsheet#10905155 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of PAREVE |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pareve |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> Usually it is used to denote a class of [[kosher]] products.<ref name="chabad mfp" /> *{{anchor|pisher}}'''Pisher''': a nobody, an inexperienced person ({{Langx|yi|פּישער|pisher|label=none}}, from {{Langx|yi|פּישן|pishn|piss|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|pissen|label=none}} or dialectal German: {{Langx|de|pischen|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pisher |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/pisher_n2?tab=factsheet#30383240 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Potch}}'''Potch''' also '''Petch''': Spank, slap, smack ({{Langx|yi|פּאַטשן|patshn|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|patschen||slap|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Potch |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/potch_v?tab=factsheet#29042443 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Plotz}}'''Plotz''': To burst from strong emotion; often used humorously to express minor shock or disappointment ({{Langx|yi|פּלאַצן|platsn|crack|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|platzen|label=none}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Plotz |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/plotz_v?tab=factsheet#29676063 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> * '''punim''': the face (Yiddish {{lang|yi|פּנים}} ''ponem'', from Hebrew {{lang|he|פָּנִים}} ''panim'').<ref>{{Cite web |title=punim |url=https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=punim |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240716173434/https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=punim |archive-date=16 July 2024 |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.oed.com |language=en |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: punim |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=punim |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *{{anchor|Putz}}'''Putz''': (vulgar) A penis, term used as an insult, a fool ({{Langx|yi|פּאָץ|pots|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: putz |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=putz |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref> Also an insignificant person, incompetent, or loser. As a verb, to idle, bodge, goof off.{{cn|date=March 2026}}

=== S === *'''Schav''': [[Sorrel soup]]. ({{Langx|yi|שטשאַוו|shtshav|label=none}}, from Polish: {{Langx|pl|szczaw|label=none}}; [https://ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=schav AHD]) *'''[[Schlemiel]]''' {{IPAc-en|ʃ|l|ə|ˈ|m|iː|l}}: An inept clumsy person; a bungler; a dolt ({{Langx|yi|שלעמיל|shlemil|label=none}} or {{Langx|yi|שלימיל|shlimil|label=none}}, probably from the Hebrew name ''Shelumiel''; OED) The word is widely recognized{{citation needed|date=January 2022}} from its inclusion in the [[Yiddish]]-American [[hopscotch]] chant "...schlemiel, schlimazel..." from the opening sequence of the American sitcom ''[[Laverne & Shirley#Opening sequence|Laverne & Shirley]]''. *{{anchor|Schlep}}'''Schlep''': To drag or haul (an object); to walk, esp. to make a tedious journey ({{Langx|yi|שלעפּן|shlepn|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|schleppen|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schlep MW]). Also a [[noun]], a lackey, hanger-on, or loser. *{{anchor|Schlimazel}}'''Schlimazel''' also '''Schlemazl''': A chronically unlucky person ({{Langx|yi|שלימזל|shlimazl|label=none}}, from [[[Middle Dutch]]: {{Langx|nl|slimp||crooked/bad|label=none}} or [[Middle High German]]: {{Langx|de|slimp||awry|label=none}} or {{Langx|de|schlimm||poor/lacking|label=none}}] + Hebrew: {{Langx|he|מזל|mazzāl|luck|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Schlamassel|label=none}}; OED). The difference between a ''schlemiel'' and a ''schlimazel'' is described through the [[aphorism]], "The ''schlemiel'' spills his soup on the ''schlimazel''." *{{anchor|schlock}}'''[[Wikt:Schlock|Schlock]]''': something cheap, shoddy, or inferior (perhaps from {{Langx|yi|שלאַק|shlak|a stroke|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Schlag|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schlock MW]) *{{anchor|Schlong}}'''Schlong''': (vulgar) A [[penis]] ({{Langx|yi|שלאַנג|shlang|snake|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Schlange|label=none}}; OED) *{{anchor|Schlub}}'''Schlub''': A clumsy, stupid, or unattractive person ({{Langx|yi|זשלאָב|zhlob|hick|label=none}}, perhaps from Polish: {{Langx|pl|żłób|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schlub MW]) *'''[[Schmaltz]]''': Melted [[chicken fat]]; metaphorically, excessive sentimentality ({{Langx|yi|שמאַלץ|shmalts|label=none}} or German: {{Langx|de|Schmalz|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schmaltz MW], [https://ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=schmaltz AHD]); adjective: schmaltzy *{{anchor|Schmatte}}'''Schmatte''': A rag ({{Langx|yi|שמאַטע|shmate|label=none}}, from Polish: {{Langx|pl|szmata|label=none}}; OED) *{{anchor|Schmear}}{{anchor|Schmeer}}'''Schmear''', '''Shmear''': Smear, spread (e.g., [[cream cheese]] on a bagel); colloq. bribe (noun or verb): ({{Langx|yi|שמיר|shmir|smear|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|schmieren|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schmear MW]). The idiom "the whole shmear" means "an entire set or group of related things" (OED).<ref>[https://forward.com/news/1651/now-shmear-this/ Now Shmear This], February 10, 2006</ref> *{{anchor|Schmo}}'''Schmo''': A stupid person (akin to ''[[#Schmuck|schmuck]]'' according to [https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=schmo AHD], but disputed by OED) *{{anchor|Schmooze}}'''Schmooze''': To converse informally, make small talk or chat ({{Langx|yi|שמועסן|shmuesn|converse|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|שמועות|shəmūʿōth|reports/gossip|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schmooze MW]). To persuade in insincere or oily fashion; to "lay it on thick". Noun: schmoozer, abbr. schmooze. Derivative : ''schmoozeoisie'' is the social class of those who earn their lives by talking, a [[portmanteau]] of "schmooze" + "bourgeoisie".<ref>[https://learningenglish.voanews.com/amp/a-23-a-2002-09-19-3-1-83111142/117916.html September 19, 2002 - 'Predicting New Words' - 2002-09-19], broadcast transcript</ref> *{{Anchor|Schmuck}}'''[[Schmuck (pejorative)|Schmuck]]''': (vulgar) A contemptible or foolish person; a jerk; ({{Langx|yi|שמאָק|shmok|penis|label=none}}, probably from [[Old Polish]] {{Langx|pl|smok||grass snake, dragon|label=none}}; [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schmuck MW], [https://www.etymonline.com/search?q=schmuck EO]) *{{anchor|Schmutter}}'''Schmutter''': Pieces of clothing; rubbish ({{Langx|yi|שמאַטע|shmate|rag|label=none}}; cf. [[#Schmatte|schmatte]]; OED) *{{anchor|Schmutz}}'''[[wikt:schmutz|Schmutz]]''' {{IPAc-en|ʃ|m|ʊ|t|s}}: Dirt ({{Langx|yi|שמוץ|shmuts|label=none}} or German: {{Langx|de|Schmutz|label=none}}; OED) *{{anchor|Schnook}}'''[[wikt:schnook|Schnook]]''': An easily imposed-upon or easily cheated person, a pitifully meek person, a particularly gullible person, a cute or mischievous person or child (perhaps from {{Langx|yi|שנוק|shnuk|snout|label=none}}; cf. Northern German: {{Langx|de|Schnucke||sheep|label=none}}; OED) *'''[[Schnorrer]]''': beggar, esp. "one who wheedles others into supplying his wants" ({{Langx|yi|שנאָרער|shnorer|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Schnorrer|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schnorrer MW]) *{{anchor|Schnoz}}'''Schnoz''' or '''Schnozz''' also '''Schnozzle''': A nose, especially a large nose (perhaps from {{Langx|yi|שנויץ|shnoyts|snout|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Schnauze|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/schnoz MW]) *{{anchor|Schvartze}}'''Schvartze''': (offensive) A Black person (from {{Langx|yi|שוואַרץ|shvarts|black|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|schwarz|label=none}}; OED) *{{anchor|Shabbos}}'''Shabbos''', '''Shabbas''', '''Shabbes''': [[Shabbat]] ({{Langx|yi|שבת|Shabes|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|שבת|Shabat|label=none}}; [https://web.archive.org/web/20071012134745/http://bartleby.com/61/71/S0307150.html AHD]) *{{anchor|Shammes}}'''Shammes''' or '''Shamash''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|ʃ|ɑː|m|ə|s}}: The caretaker of a synagogue; also, the ninth candle of the Hanukkah menorah, used to light the others ({{Langx|yi|שמשׂ|shames|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|שמש|šammāš|attendant|label=none}}; OED, [https://m-w.com/dictionary/Shammes MW]) *{{anchor|Shamus}}'''Shamus''': a detective (possibly {{Langx|yi|שאַמעס|shammes|label=none}} or the Irish name ''Seamus''; OED, Macquarie) *'''[[Shegetz]]''': (derogatory) a young non-Jewish man ({{Langx|yi|שגץ|label=none}} or {{Langx|yi|שײגעץ|sheygets|label=none}}, from Hebrew:  {{Langx|he|שקץ|shekets|abomination|label=none}}; [https://web.archive.org/web/20070203230502/http://www.bartleby.com/61/19/S0331900.html AHD]) *{{anchor|Shemozzle}}'''Shemozzle''': (slang) Quarrel, brawl (perhaps related to ''schlimazel'', q.v.; OED). This word is commonly used in Ireland to describe confused situations during the Irish sport of [[hurling]], e.g. "There was a shemozzle near the goalmouth". In particular, it was a [[catchphrase]] of 1940s–1980s television commentator [[Michael O'Hehir]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Doyle |first=Dr Siobhán |title=A short history of shemozzles in the GAA |website=[[RTÉ.ie]] |url=https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2020/0220/1116459-gaa-shemozzles/ |date=2020-02-20}}</ref> *{{anchor|Shikker}}'''Shikker''', '''Shicker''', '''Shickered''': Drunk (adjective or noun) ({{Langx|yi|שכּור|shiker|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{Langx|he|שיכור|shikor|label=none}}; OED) *'''[[Shiksa]]''' or '''Shikse''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|ʃ|ɪ|k|s|ə}}: (often derogatory) A young non-Jewish woman ({{Langx|yi|שיקסע|shikse|label=none}}, a derivative of ''sheygets'', from Polish: {{Langx|pl|siksa|label=none}}; [http://www.bartleby.com/61/34/S0343400.html AHD]) *'''[[Shmendrik]]''' or '''Shmendrick''': A foolish or contemptible person (from a character in an operetta by [[Abraham Goldfaden]]; OED) *'''[[Shtetl]]''': A small town with a large Jewish population in pre-[[Holocaust]] Eastern Europe ({{Langx|yi|שטעטל|shtetl|town|label=none}}, diminutive of {{Langx|yi|שטאָט|shtot|city|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Städtl|label=none}}, South German / Austrian colloquial diminutive of {{Langx|de|Stadt||city|label=none}}; [https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050257/http://bartleby.com/61/76/S0377600.html AHD]) *'''[[Shtibl]]''': A small synagogue or place of prayer ({{Langx|yi|שטיבל|shtibl|little room|label=none}}; cf. German: {{Langx|de|Stüberl|label=none}}; OED) *'''[[Shtick]]''': Comic theme; a defining habit or distinguishing feature or business ({{langx|yi|שטיק|shtik|piece|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|Stück||piece|label=none}}; [https://web.archive.org/web/20070423012821/http://www.bartleby.com/61/77/S0377700.html AHD]) *'''Shtum''': Quiet, silent ({{langx|yi|שטום|shtum|mute|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|stumm|label=none}}); OED) *{{anchor|Shtup}}'''Shtup''': (vulgar slang) To have sexual intercourse ({{langx|yi|שטופּ|shtoop|push/poke/intercourse|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|stupsen||poke|label=none}}; OED) *{{anchor|Shul}}'''Shul''': a synagogue ({{langx|yi|שול|shul|school|label=none}}, from Middle High German: {{langx|de|schuol||school|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|Schule||school|label=none}}; [https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shul MW]) *{{anchor|Shvitz}}'''Shvitz''': to sweat (v.), a sauna or steam bath (n.) ({{langx|yi|שוויצן|shvitsn|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|schwitzen|label=none}}; OED) *{{anchor|Spiel|shpiel}}'''Spiel''' or '''Shpiel''': A sales pitch or speech intended to persuade ({{langx|yi|שפּיל|shpil|play|label=none}} or German: {{langx|de|(Theater-) Spiel||play (theater)|label=none}}; [https://web.archive.org/web/20070930191815/http://www.bartleby.com/61/81/S0638100.html AHD])

=== T === [[File:TzimmesS.jpg|thumb|180px|Carrot [[tzimmes]] with honey]] *'''[[Tchotchke]]''': A knickknack, trinket, curio ({{langx|yi|צאַצקע|tsatske|label=none}}, {{langx|yi|טשאַטשקע|tshatshke|label=none}}, from Polish: {{langx|pl|[[wikt:pl:cacko|cacko]]|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tchotchke |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/tchotchke_n?tab=factsheet#17410845 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 18, 2026 |title=Definition of TCHOTCHKE |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tchotchke |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *{{anchor|Tref|trayf|traif}}'''Tref''' or '''Trayf''' or '''Traif''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|t|r|eɪ|f}}: Not [[kosher]] ({{langx|yi|טרייף|treyf|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{langx|he|טרפֿה|ṭərēfā|carrion|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=tref. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://bartleby.com/61/68/T0336800.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071016050252/http://bartleby.com/61/68/T0336800.html |archive-date=2007-10-16 |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=bartleby.com}}</ref> *{{anchor|Tsuris}}'''Tsuris''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|t|s|ʊ|r|ɪ|s}}: Troubles, grief ({{langx|yi|צרות|tsores/tsoris|label=none}},<ref>{{Cite news |last=Carr |first=David |author-link=David Carr (journalist) |date=May 19, 2014 |title=Abramson’s Exit at The Times Puts Tensions on Display |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/19/business/media/editors-exit-at-the-times-puts-tensions-on-display.html |access-date=2026-03-26 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> from Hebrew: {{langx|he|צרות|tsarot|troubles|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tsuris |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/tsuris_n?tab=factsheet#17413042 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of TSURIS |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tsuris |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: tsuris |url=https://www.ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=tsuris |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *{{anchor|Tuchus}}'''Tuchus''' (also '''tuches''', '''tuchis''',<ref name="Tuchis">{{Cite web |last=Goldberg |first=Jeffrey |author-link=Jeffrey Goldberg |date=June 9, 2010 |title=Words That the New York Times Will Not Print |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2010/06/words-that-the-new-york-times-will-not-print/57884/ |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=The Atlantic |language=en |quote="'Joe Lieberman is too polite to complain, but the Gore questions are getting to be a pain in the tuchis.' ... Though Leibovich's copy editors allowed ''tuchus'' to be spelled incorrectly, the ''Washington Post'' is obviously more tolerant of Jewish flamboyance ..."}}</ref> '''tukus''', '''tuchas''', or '''tukhus''') {{IPAc-en|ˈ|t|ʊ|x|ə|s}}: The buttocks, bottom, rear end ({{langx|yi|תחת|tokhes|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{langx|he|תחת|taḥath|underneath|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tuchus |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/tuchus_n?tab=factsheet#18226936 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Tummler}}'''Tummler''': An entertainer or master of ceremonies, especially one who encourages audience interaction ({{langx|yi|טומלער|tumler|label=none}}, from {{langx|yi|טומלען|tumlen|make a racket|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|(sich) tummeln||go among people|label=none}} or 'cavort'.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tummler |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/tummler_n?tab=factsheet#17460870 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of TUMMLER |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tummler |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *{{anchor|Tush}}'''Tush''' (also '''Tushy'''): The buttocks, bottom, rear end ({{langx|yi|תּחת|tokes|label=none}}; cf. [[#Tuchus|tuchus]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tush |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/tush_n4?tab=factsheet#17208886 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 21, 2026 |title=Definition of TUSH |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tush |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''[[Tzimmes]]''': A sweet stew of vegetables and fruit; a fuss, a confused affair, a to-do ({{Langx|yi|צימעס|tsimes|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tzimmes |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/tzimmes_n?tab=factsheet#17328630 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of TZIMMES |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tzimmes |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref>

=== V === *'''[[Vigorish]]''' (also contraction '''Vig'''): That portion of the gambling winnings held by the bookmaker as payment for services ({{langx|yi|וויגריש|vigrish|label=none}},{{Citation needed|date=April 2019|reason=From Wiktionary, uncited there, and Yiddish not mentioned in the enwiki article. Remove from the list if not citable as being from Yiddish.}} from Russian: {{langx|ru|выигрыш|vyigrysh|winnings|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=vigorish |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/vigorish_n?tab=factsheet#15573139 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: vigorish |url=https://ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=vigorish |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=ahdictionary.com}}</ref> *{{anchor|Verklempt}}'''Verklempt''': Choked with emotion ({{langx|yi|פֿאַרקלעמט|farklemt|depressed/grieving|label=none}}, originally 'pressed, gripped'; cf. German: ''verklemmt'' meaning 'uptight'.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of VERKLEMPT |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/verklempt |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref>

=== Y === [[File:Casamento judeu1.jpg|thumb|180px|[[Yarmulke]]]] *'''[[Yarmulke]]''': A round cloth skullcap worn by observant Jewish men ({{langx|yi|יאַרמלקע|yarmlke|label=none}}, possibly from Polish: {{langx|pl|jarmułka|label=none}} and Ukrainian: {{langx|uk|ярмулка|yarmulka|skullcap|label=none}}, possibly from {{langx|tr|yağmurluk||raincoat/oilskin}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Yarmulke |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/yarmulke_n?tab=factsheet#13713239 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=March 15, 2026 |title=Definition of YARMULKE |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yarmulke |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''[[Yekke]]''': (humorous, mildly derogatory<ref>{{cite journal | jstor=40502725 | title=The Etymology of Yiddish Yeke | last1=Gold | first1=David L. | journal=Zeitschrift für Dialektologie und Linguistik | date=1981 | volume=48 | issue=1 | pages=57–59 }}</ref>) A German Jew; its most common usage derives from the [[Mandatory Palestine|British Mandate]] period to describe [[Fifth Aliyah]] German Jews, who were perceived to be more formal in dress and manners. ({{langx|yi|יעקע|yeke|jacket|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|Jacke|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Yekke |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/yekke_adj?tab=factsheet#12533715 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *'''[[Yenta]]''' (variants: [[wikt:yente|yente]], [[wikt:yentl|yentl]]): A talkative woman; a gossip; a scold ({{langx|yi|יענטע|yente|label=none}}, from a given name.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Yenta |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/yenta_n?tab=factsheet#13765239 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of YENTA |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yenta |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> *'''[[Yiddish language|Yiddish]]''': The Yiddish language ({{langx|yi|ייִדיש|Yidish|Jewish|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|jüdisch|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Yiddish. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language: Fourth Edition. 2000. |url=http://www.bartleby.com/61/4/Y0020400.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070401200135/http://www.bartleby.com/61/4/Y0020400.html |archive-date=2007-04-01 |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=www.bartleby.com}}</ref> *{{anchor|Yontef|Yontiff|Yom Tov}}'''Yontef''' also '''Yom Tov''': A [[Jewish holiday]] on which work is forbidden, e.g. [[Rosh Hashanah]], [[Yom Kippur]], [[Passover|Pesach]] ({{langx|yi|יום- טובֿ|yontef|holiday|label=none}}, from Hebrew: {{langx|he|יום טוב|yōm ṭōv|good day|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Yontiff |url=https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=Yontiff |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref> *{{anchor|Yutz}}'''Yutz''': A fool ({{langx|yi|יאָנץ|yonts|label=none}}, perhaps derived from ''[[#Putz|putz]]''.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Partridge |first=Eric |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mAdUqLrKw4YC |title=The New Partridge Dictionary of Slang and Unconventional English: J-Z |date=2006 |publisher=Taylor & Francis |isbn=978-0-415-25938-5 |pages=2148 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The American Heritage Dictionary entry: yutz |url=https://ahdictionary.com/word/search.html?q=yutz |access-date=2026-03-26 |website=ahdictionary.com}}</ref>

=== Z === *{{anchor|Zaftig}}'''Zaftig''', also '''Zaftik''' {{IPAc-en|ˈ|z|ɑː|f|t|ɪ|k}}: Pleasingly plump, buxom, full-figured, as a woman ({{langx|yi|זאַפֿטיק|zaftik|juicy|label=none}}; cf. German: {{langx|de|saftig||juicy|label=none}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=zaftig |url=https://www.oed.com/dictionary/zaftig_adj?tab=factsheet#13658216 |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Definition of ZAFTIG |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zaftig |access-date=2026-03-19 |website=www.merriam-webster.com |language=en}}</ref> * '''Zayde''' (Yid. {{lang|yi|זײדע}} ''zeyde''): grandfather, old man, often a term of respect or endearment.<ref>{{Cite web |title=zayde |url=https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?scope=Entries&q=zayde |website=Oxford English Dictionary}}</ref>

==See also== *[[List of English words of Hebrew origin]] *[[List of German expressions in English]] *[[Lists of English words by country or language of origin]] *[[Yeshivish]] *[[Yiddish words used in English]] *[[Shm-reduplication]], an English-language [[reduplication]] of Yiddish origin

==References== * {{Cite book |last=Eisenberg |first=Joyce |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Wu86sK4ZqlgC&printsec=frontcover |title=Dictionary of Jewish Words: A JPS Guide |last2=Scolnic |first2=Ellen |date=October 1, 2006 |publisher=Jewish Publication Society |isbn=978-0-8276-0996-9 |language=en}} {{reflist}}

[[Category:Judeo-English languages]] [[Category:Lists of English words of foreign origin|Yiddish]] [[Category:Yiddish|List of words]] [[Category:Yiddish words and phrases| ]] [[Category:Lists of loanwords of Germanic origin]]