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.

Mensch

[tiashome.livejournal.com]

It's Yiddish and means "a good person", I think.

[mery-fr.livejournal.com]

Mensch is the German word for "human being". Used that way, it has its origins in Yiddish, I believe. It designates a compassionate and caring person, while acknowledging all his human failings.

Ah, here it is. Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary says:

Etymology: Yiddish mentsh human being, from Middle High German mensch, from Old High German mennisco; akin to Old English man human being, man.

: a person of integrity and honor

[lin-lin-lucy.livejournal.com]

oh i dunno what it means...hey!....you have a paid account dont you?....you wanna spare a code?.... i know someone who wants a journal.....thanks in advance