Motke

Hebrew

"follower of Marduk"

Motke Origin and Meaning

The name Motke is a boy's name of Yiddish origin.

Motke is a masculine name of Yiddish origin, primarily used in Jewish communities as a diminutive or nickname for Mordechai (Hebrew) or Mordecai. The name Mordechai itself has Persian roots and gained significance in Jewish tradition through the biblical figure in the Book of Esther who helped save the Jewish people. Motke carries the warmth and familiarity characteristic of Yiddish diminutives, with the '-ke' suffix adding an affectionate quality. The name is most common in Eastern European Jewish communities and among descendants who maintained Yiddish naming traditions. While relatively rare in mainstream American naming, Motke represents cultural continuity and connection to Jewish heritage. The name has an authentic, old-world charm that connects modern bearers to generations of Eastern European Jewish history and tradition.

Famous People Named Motke

• Mordecai "Motke" Rosenthal birth name of Márk Rózsavölgyi, Hungarian composer and violinist, called "the father of csárdás"