The given name Cale has its origins in the Gaelic and Celtic languages. It is derived from the word "cailech" which means "stern" or "hard". The name dates back to the early medieval period and was commonly used in parts of Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Cale can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history. The Annals mention a Cale mac Scannlain, who was an Irish king and chieftain in the 10th century.

In Welsh mythology, there is a character named Cale who appears in the story of Culhwch and Olwen. Cale is depicted as a powerful giant and is tasked with hunting the legendary boar Twrch Trwyth.

The name Cale gained popularity in Scotland during the Middle Ages. One notable figure was Cale MacDonald, a Scottish chieftain who lived in the 13th century. He is remembered for his role in the Scottish Wars of Independence against the English.

During the Renaissance period, the name Cale was also used in England. Cale Overton (1515-1609) was an English clergyman and scholar who served as the Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield.

In more recent history, Cale Yarborough (born 1939) is an American former professional race car driver. He was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2012 and is considered one of the greatest drivers in the sport's history.

Other notable individuals with the first name Cale include Cale Gundy (born 1972), an American football coach and former player, and Cale Fleury (born 1998), a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Seattle Kraken in the NHL.