Blessed or happy
Zelig is a Yiddish name derived from the German word 'selig', meaning blessed or holy. It has historically been used as a vernacular equivalent to the Hebrew name Asher. While rare today, it carries a cheerful and auspicious sentiment.
Less common today
Zelig isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #6,909 in 2021.
The 'human chameleon' protagonist of the mockumentary film Β· Zelig
Famous comedian and actor in the early Yiddish theater
Prominent rabbi and educator
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).