question for the LJ pool of collective knowledge

[timepiececlock]

What does "mensch" mean?

Take this example:

"I’d try to help anyway, because we have history. Not all of it good, but history. And I guess I’m in no position: glass house, kettle, stones, sin? And I have to admit, he’s become a mensch. Not a man, but a mensch."
-from Old Blood

Comments

[elz.livejournal.com]

Hmm - it's Yiddish, but I've never exactly heard it defined. I've always taken it to mean someone of integrity, someone you respect.

[rashaka.livejournal.com]

Hmm... tiashome left a reply below that might define it.