Gale

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Gale

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 4
Syllables 2
Pronunciation geyl

Gale, which has 4 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Gale

A stranger

Gale is a unisex name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word “galan”, meaning “to sing” or “to rejoice”. In modern times, it is often used as a short form of Abigail or Gail. It can also refer to a strong wind or storm.

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Meaning A stranger
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #920 in 1969 Declining
Rarity (US) Rare (Top 1000)
Era Vintage (1930s)

Background & History of The Name Gale

Gale is a unisex English given name that has its roots in Old English and Old Norse language. It is derived from the word ‘gāl’, which means ‘light breeze’ or ‘gentle wind’. The name Gale gained popularity in the late 19th century and has remained moderately common ever since.

The name Gale has several notable variations and forms in different regions and cultures. In Scotland, it is more commonly spelled as Gail, and in Ireland, it is sometimes spelled as Gayle. In addition, some variants of the name include Galea, which is of Italian origin, and Galina, which is of Russian and Bulgarian origin.

Gale has traditionally been used as both a given name and a surname. Notable individuals bearing the name Gale include the American film scholar John Gale, the British actress Gale Robbins, and the American composer Gale Garnett. The name has also been popularized in popular culture, such as Gale Hawthorne, a character from The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins.

Those with the name Gale are often associated with qualities such as being independent, creative, and intellectually inclined. The name may also be connected to attributes like being adaptable and having a free-spirited nature. The gender-neutral nature of Gale has contributed to its endurance and appeal as a name choice for both boys and girls.

Overall, Gale is a name that carries a sense of tranquility and represents the gentle and serene qualities of a light breeze. The name's versatility and positive associations make it a favored choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Gale over the years.

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