Motl

Hebrew

"follower of Marduk"

Motl Origin and Meaning

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

Motl is a masculine name of Yiddish origin, typically used as a diminutive form of Mordecai (Hebrew for 'warrior'). The name gained literary recognition through the character Motl in Sholem Aleichem's stories, later adapted into the musical 'Fiddler on the Roof.' Compact and distinctive, Motl carries cultural significance in Jewish communities, particularly those with Eastern European heritage. Though uncommon in mainstream Western naming practices, it remains an important cultural name that connects to Jewish traditions and history. The brevity of Motl gives it a punchy, memorable quality while still maintaining its rich cultural roots.