Neale is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the ancient Irish surname "Niall," which was borne by several high kings of Ireland. The name Niall is believed to mean "champion" or "cloud" in Gaelic.
The name Neale first appeared as a given name in the 19th century, likely influenced by the growing popularity of Irish culture and literature during that time. It has since become a uncommon but memorable choice for parents looking for a name with a touch of rarity and historical significance.
Neale is typically considered to be masculine, although it can also be used as a feminine name in some cases. Some famous individuals who bear this name include Neale Daniher, an Australian rules footballer, and Neale Richmond, an Irish politician.
In summary, Neale is a unique and historic given name of Irish origin that means "champion" or "cloud." It has been used as a given name since the 19th century and can be considered for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name with ties to Irish history.
Statistics on the Name Neale in the United States:
The name Neale has been given to babies for over a century in the United States, with the earliest recorded birth being in 1916. The number of births fluctuated greatly throughout the decades, with peaks and troughs indicating varying levels of popularity.
In the early years, between 1916 and 1929, Neale saw an increase in usage, reaching a high of 23 births in 1921. This period of popularity was followed by a decline in the number of babies named Neale, with as few as 5 births recorded in some years between 1974 and 2012.
Despite these fluctuations, Neale has maintained a consistent, if low, level of usage over time. The total number of births for the name Neale in the United States from 1916 to 2012 is 915.
This data suggests that while Neale may not have been a ubiquitous choice among parents throughout history, it has remained a recognizable and occasionally popular name option for American babies. It's important to note that these statistics only reflect births in the United States and do not account for other countries or regions where Neale might be more or less popular.
In conclusion, while Neale may not have reached the heights of popularity enjoyed by some names, its consistent presence over time indicates a enduring appeal among parents seeking unique naming options for their children.