J Harold Ellens

The surname Kushner is an English transliteration of a Yiddish occupational name, meaning 'furrier'. This term has roots in related German and Ukrainian words. The name is borne by a diverse group of notable individuals, spanning various fields of achievement.

Among those with the surname are artists like Russian poet Alexander Kushner and U.S. playwright Tony Kushner. In politics and public service, Bernard Kouchner, a French politician and physician, and Jared Kushner, a former White House official, are noted. The academic and literary world includes figures such as U.S. fantasy author Ellen Kushner and writer David Kushner. The family also includes prominent figures in the American real estate industry, notably the family founded by Joseph Kushner, including his sons Charles and Murray, and Jared and Joshua Kushner, sons of Charles, and Marc Kushner, son of Murray. Other notable individuals span professions from ophthalmology to acting and singing.

The surname Kushner is derived from the Yiddish term קושנער (kushner), which represents an occupational title. This name signifies a 'furrier,' an individual who works with or sells furs. The etymology traces back to an older Yiddish word, קירזשנער (kirzshner), also denoting a furrier. This occupational designation is consistent with similar terms in other languages, such as the German word Kürschner and the Ukrainian word кушнір (kushnir), both carrying the same meaning. This shared linguistic root highlights a historical trade that was likely common across these cultural regions.

The surname Kushner is associated with a wide array of individuals who have achieved recognition in various domains. In the arts and literature, notable figures include Russian poet Alexander Kushner, U.S. fantasy author Ellen Kushner, writer David Kushner, and Tony Kushner, a prominent American playwright and screenwriter. The political and public service sphere features Bernard Kouchner, a French politician and physician, and Jared Kushner, who held a senior position in the White House. The academic and scientific communities are represented by individuals such as Canadian scholar Eva Kushner and U.S. professor Harold J. Kushner. The entertainment industry includes actress Yvonne Levy Kushner and singer Diane Renay (born Renee Diane Kushner).

A significant lineage bearing the Kushner surname is the American real estate family, which traces its origins to Joseph Kushner (né: Berkowitz). He established the family's foundation in real estate mogulism. His sons, Charles Kushner and Murray Kushner, continued and expanded this legacy. Charles Kushner is recognized as a real estate mogul, and his sons, Jared Kushner and Joshua Kushner, have also become prominent figures. Jared Kushner served as a senior White House official and is married to Ivanka Trump, daughter of former President Donald Trump. Joshua Kushner is also involved in business. Murray Kushner's son, Marc Kushner, is an architect. The family's influence extends through multiple generations in the real estate and business sectors.