Hale is an English given name of recent origin, derived from the Old English word 'hal' meaning 'hale', which denotes being healthy and robust. It has been traditionally used as a surname but gained popularity as a given name in the mid-20th century. The name Hale does not have any specific historical figures or cultural references associated with it. It is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, with its usage being more prevalent in the United States compared to other nations. As of 2020, it ranks among the top ten thousand names for newborn boys in the U.S., suggesting that Hale remains a popular choice for parents seeking distinctive yet familiar-sounding names for their sons.
Hale is not a very common name for girls, with only 14 recorded births between 1998 and 2007.