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

Popularity of Blake by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Blake is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 91% of people named Blake being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 1,366 male babies and 1,346 female babies born with the name Blake.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 1,346 baby girls were named Blake in 2023, despite it being a predominantly male name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Blake

The name Blake has its origins in the Old English language and is derived from the word "blæc," which means "black" or "dark-haired." It was initially used as a nickname or surname to describe someone with dark hair or a swarthy complexion.

In the early Middle Ages, the name emerged as a given name, particularly in England and other parts of the British Isles. The earliest recorded instances of the name date back to the 12th century, with individuals like Blake de Novers, who was mentioned in records from Oxfordshire in 1195.

Throughout history, the name Blake has been associated with various notable figures. One of the most prominent individuals bearing this name was William Blake, the renowned English poet, painter, and printmaker, who lived from 1757 to 1827. His works, such as "Songs of Innocence and Experience," have had a lasting impact on literature and art.

Another notable figure was Robert Blake, an English admiral who played a crucial role in the English Civil War and served as a commander of the Commonwealth naval forces during the 17th century. He was born in 1598 and died in 1657.

In the realm of sports, Blake Bortles, an American football quarterback, gained recognition for his time with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the National Football League (NFL). He was born in 1992 and played professionally from 2014 to 2020.

Blake Edwards, the acclaimed American film director, writer, and producer, is also a noteworthy bearer of this name. He was responsible for iconic films such as "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and the "Pink Panther" series. Edwards was born in 1922 and passed away in 2010.

Blake Lively, an American actress known for her roles in films like "Gossip Girl" and "The Age of Adaline," has helped to popularize the name in recent times. She was born in 1987 and continues to have a successful career in the entertainment industry.

While the name Blake has evolved and gained popularity over time, it remains rooted in its Old English origins, reflecting a connection to the idea of darkness or dark-haired individuals. Its historical significance and association with notable figures across various fields have contributed to its enduring appeal.

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 Blake was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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