Find out how popular the first name Yates has been for the last 49 years (from 1975 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Yates by gender

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

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 9 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Yates.

The history of the first name Yates

The name Yates has its origins in the Old English language, derived from the word "geat," which means "gate" or "entrance." This name emerged during the Anglo-Saxon period in Britain, which spanned from the 5th to the 11th centuries AD.

The earliest recorded use of the name Yates can be traced back to the 12th century, where it appeared in various medieval records and documents. It was often used as a surname, referring to individuals who lived near a gate or worked as gatekeepers.

One of the earliest known individuals with the name Yates was Sir John Yates, an English knight who lived during the 13th century. He was a prominent figure in the court of King Henry III and participated in several military campaigns.

In the 16th century, the name gained popularity among Puritan families in England. One notable bearer of the name was John Yates, a Protestant minister who was born in 1611. He played a significant role in the English Civil War and was a supporter of the Parliamentary cause.

During the 17th century, the name Yates spread beyond England to other parts of the British Isles and eventually to the American colonies. One of the most famous individuals with this name was Robert Yates, an American jurist and politician who was born in 1738. He served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and was one of the drafters of the United States Constitution.

Another prominent figure with the name Yates was Edmund Yates, an English novelist, and journalist who lived from 1831 to 1894. He was known for his works such as "The Impending Sword" and "The Forlorn Hope," which depicted life in Victorian England.

In the 20th century, the name Yates gained recognition through individuals like John Butler Yates, an American actor and comedian who was born in 1904. He starred in numerous films and television shows, including "The Beverly Hillbillies" and "Petticoat Junction."

While the name Yates may have had humble beginnings as a reference to gatekeepers, it has since been borne by individuals from various walks of life, including politicians, writers, actors, and historical figures. Its enduring presence throughout the centuries underscores its unique journey from a simple occupational descriptor to a given name with a rich heritage.

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

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

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