Blake is a name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years. It is derived from the Old English word "blæc," which means "black." This name was traditionally given to dark-haired children, as it was believed to bring good fortune.
The name Blake first appeared in the records during the Middle Ages and was initially used as a surname before becoming popular as a given name in the 20th century. It is still more commonly used as a boy's name, but it has also been given to girls in recent years.
Some famous people with the name Blake include the poet William Blake, who lived during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, and the actor Blake Lively, who was born in the late 20th century. Despite its English origins, the name Blake has also been used in other countries, including Australia and Canada.
Overall, Blake is a strong and distinctive name with a rich history that continues to be popular today. Its meaning adds an interesting layer of depth to the name, making it a great choice for parents looking for something unique and meaningful.
These statistics indicate a significant increase in the number of babies named Blake over time, with notable spikes occurring around major historical events and trends. In the late 19th century, births were relatively stable, ranging from 5 to 16 per year. However, beginning in the early 20th century, there was a sharp rise in popularity, coinciding with World War I (1914-1918) and the post-war baby boom. Between 1915 and 1921, Blake births increased from 38 to 61 annually.
The trend continued throughout the mid-century, with peaks around World War II (1939-1945), the post-war baby boom, and the 1950s and 1960s counterculture movement. Notably, there were over 200 Blake births per year from 1952 onwards.
In recent decades, while the popularity of the name has fluctuated, it remains a popular choice, with over 400 Blake births recorded annually between 2000 and 2016. However, there's been a decline since then, with fewer than 1,600 Blake births recorded in each year from 2017 to 2023.
Overall, the name Blake has had periods of significant popularity, with over 184,000 babies named Blake between 1883 and 2023.