The name Halee is a modern variant of the Hebrew name Halle, which is derived from the Hebrew word "hallel," meaning "praise" or "to praise." It is believed to have originated in ancient Israel during the time of the Hebrew Bible.

The name Halle is mentioned in the Book of Psalms, where it is used as an expression of praise to God. One of the most well-known references is found in Psalm 150, which begins with the words "Hallelujah" (Praise the Lord).

The earliest recorded use of the name Halle can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when it was used by Jewish communities in Europe. One of the earliest notable individuals with this name was Rabbi Halle ben Eliyahu, a prominent Jewish scholar who lived in the 13th century.

In the 16th century, the name gained popularity among Protestant Christians, particularly in Germany, where it was often spelled as "Halle." One of the most famous historical figures with this name was Georg Friedrich Händel (1685-1759), the renowned German composer known for his operas and oratorios.

Another notable individual with the name Halle was the French philosopher and mathematician René Descartes (1596-1650), who was born in the town of La Haye en Touraine, which was also known as Haye or Halle.

In more recent history, the name Halee emerged as a variant spelling, particularly in English-speaking countries. One of the earliest recorded individuals with this spelling was Halee Steinfeld, an American singer and actress born in 1996.

Other notable individuals with the name Halee include Halee Hirsh, an American singer-songwriter born in 1977, and Halee Kaleem, a Pakistani actress and model born in 1989.