kvell: A Word You Should Know

Kvell puts a magnifying glass on one of the most positive ways to bolster people. Kvell creates joy and growth through simple acts of appreciation, praise, and encouragement. Kvell celebrates an important Yiddish word that was never assimilated into the English language. But it’s a word we should all know. Traditionally, kvell reinforces and celebrates young people inside a Jewish family, through pride and praise. Barbara Edelston Peterson grew up in a family where kvelling was the norm, which led to self-confident and successful children. As an adult, Barbara continues to kvell over her own family and extends kvelling to those around her in work, life, and sport. Recognizing that this practice generates strong productive outcomes beyond the Jewish tradition, Barbara was inspired to share the power of kvell with everyone. Kvell illuminates the universal benefits of this practice through science and examples of personal triumphs from all walks of life. Unlike other widely used Yiddish words—such as kvetch, schmuck, chutzpah, and klutz that often carry negative connotations—kvell is uplifting and positive. Barbara shows that of all the Yiddish words that have become part of everyday language, kvell should no longer be left out.