Find out how popular the first name Al has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Al by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Al is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 99% of people named Al being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 16 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Al.

The history of the first name Al

The name Al is a short form derived from various longer names that originated in different cultures and languages. It has a rich and diverse history, spanning across multiple regions and time periods.

Al is believed to have its roots in the Arabic language, where it is often a shortened form of names like Ala, Alim, or Aladin. In Arabic, the prefix "Al" means "the" and is commonly used in names and titles. This suggests that the name Al may have originated as a diminutive or nickname for longer Arabic names that began with "Al."

The name Al also has connections to Germanic and Old Norse origins. It could be a contracted form of names like Albert, Alberich, or Alfred, which were derived from the Germanic root "alf," meaning "elf" or "supernatural being." This association with Germanic mythology and folklore adds an intriguing layer to the name's history.

In ancient texts and religious scriptures, there are mentions of individuals bearing names that could be related to Al. For instance, in the Bible, there is a reference to a character named Alvah, which shares similarities with the name Al. Additionally, in Norse mythology, there is a figure named Alberich, who plays a significant role in the "Nibelungenlied" epic.

Some of the earliest recorded instances of the name Al can be traced back to the Middle Ages. One notable figure was Al-Khwarizmi, a Persian mathematician, astronomer, and geographer who lived between 780 and 850 CE. He is renowned for his contributions to algebra and is considered a pioneering figure in the field of mathematics.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Al. One iconic figure is Al Capone, the infamous American gangster who rose to prominence during the Prohibition era in the 1920s and 1930s. Another well-known Al is Al Pacino, the celebrated American actor known for his roles in films like "The Godfather" and "Scarface."

In the realm of sports, Al Kaline, an American baseball player who played for the Detroit Tigers from 1953 to 1974, left an indelible mark on the game. Al Unser, an American automotive racing driver who won the Indianapolis 500 four times, is another prominent figure associated with the name.

Lastly, Al Hirschfeld, an American caricaturist and artist renowned for his distinctive drawings of celebrities, which featured minimalist lines and striking portraits, was a prominent figure in the art world during the 20th century.

These are just a few examples of the rich tapestry of individuals who have borne the name Al throughout history, each contributing to its enduring legacy and cultural significance.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Al was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Al, please contact us.

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