Gable is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the English surname Gabel, which is believed to have been an occupational name for a blacksmith or a maker of metal hoops for barrels. The name Gable is thought to have originated in the county of Essex in England.
The meaning of the name Gable is associated with its occupational origins and can be interpreted as "a maker of hoops" or "a smith who works with metal." However, it is important to note that there is no universally accepted definition for the name Gable, and its meaning may vary depending on different sources.
The name Gable has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was first recorded as a surname in England during the 13th century. Over time, Gable evolved from being a surname to becoming a given name. Although it is not as common as some other names, Gable has been used as a masculine given name for several centuries.
One notable figure associated with the name Gable is the famous American actor Clark Gable (1901-1960), whose real last name was Gablerson but who became known professionally as Clark Gable. He starred in numerous films during Hollywood's Golden Age and remains one of the most iconic actors in film history.
In modern times, the name Gable has gained popularity among parents looking for unique and distinctive names for their children. It is often associated with strength, masculinity, and uniqueness due to its occupational origins and historical usage as a surname turned given name. Despite its uncommonness, Gable continues to be a memorable and interesting choice for a boy's name.
The name Gable has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century, with a notable surge starting from the late 1980s onwards. The name first peaked in the early 1990s, reaching its highest point in 1993 with 14 births. After a brief decline, it gained momentum again and reached another peak in 2009 with 23 births. Despite fluctuations over the years, Gable has remained popular, with the most recent year showing 17 births (in 2022). Overall, there have been a total of 769 recorded births for the name Gable since 1909.