Gates is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English word "gæt" which means 'gate'. It was often used as an occupational name for someone who lived near or worked at a gatehouse. The surname Gates has been recorded since the early 13th century and can be found in various spellings such as Gaite, Gaytes, and Gaitz. Today, Gates is one of the most common surnames in England and Scotland.
"The Gates name saw its peak popularity with 10 births both in 1994 and 1996. However, it has had steady birth counts over the years, totaling to 44 from 1993 to 2000."