Find out how popular the first name Yale has been for the last 49 years (from 1974 to 2022) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Yale by gender

Based on the last 49 years of data, Yale is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2022, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Yale.

The history of the first name Yale

The name Yale is an English given name of uncertain origin. Its earliest recorded use dates back to the 16th century, although its roots may be much older. One theory suggests that Yale is derived from the Old English word "gæl," meaning "jovial" or "festive." Another possibility is that it originated from the Welsh name "Ial," meaning "fertile land."

While the name's precise etymology remains unclear, Yale has been borne by several notable figures throughout history. One of the earliest recorded individuals with this name was Yale Broklesby (1588-1647), an English landowner and Member of Parliament during the reign of King Charles I.

In the realm of literature, Yale Windham (1721-1770) was an English dramatist and poet best known for his play "The Twins" and his contributions to the periodical "The World." Another literary figure was Yale Stuart (1853-1933), an American author who wrote extensively about the American West and Native American culture.

The name Yale also gained prominence in the world of academia with the establishment of Yale University in 1701. The institution was named after Elihu Yale (1649-1721), a wealthy merchant and benefactor who donated funds and books to the fledgling college.

In more recent times, Yale Tishchin (1891-1972) was a Russian-American artist and painter known for his vibrant landscapes and cityscapes. Yale Lary (born 1930) is a former American football player and member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, renowned for his exceptional skills as a safety.

Throughout its history, the name Yale has been associated with individuals from diverse backgrounds and fields, ranging from politics and literature to academia and sports. While its origins may be shrouded in mystery, the name has left an indelible mark on various aspects of human endeavor.

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

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

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