Gail is a female given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Gael," which means "foreigner" or "stranger." The name was originally used to refer to people who were not native to Scotland, particularly those from Ireland.
The name Gail has been in use since at least the 13th century, although its usage as a given name for females is more recent. It gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century and was among the top 1000 names for girls from the 1940s to the late 1980s.
Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Gail. One of the most famous is American actress Gail Patrick, who appeared in many films during the Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s. Another well-known figure is Gail S. Kelly, who served as the chairperson and CEO of Bank of America from 2009 to 2015.
In literature, the name Gail has been used by several authors, including American novelist Gail Godwin and Canadian poet Gail Scott. These writers have helped to shape the literary landscape and contribute to the rich history of the name Gail.
While the meaning of the name Gail is straightforward - "foreigner" or "stranger" - it is important to note that its significance can vary depending on cultural context and personal interpretation. Some people may associate the name with its Scottish roots, while others might connect it with notable figures who have borne the name throughout history.
In conclusion, Gail is a female given name of Scottish origin that has been in use for centuries. With a straightforward meaning and a rich history, this name offers a unique choice for parents looking to name their daughters something distinctive yet approachable.
The name Gail has seen a significant decline in popularity over the past century in the United States. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, there were consistently more than ten births per year with the name Gail. The highest point was reached in 1937 with 2635 births.
However, from the 1940s onwards, the number of births named Gail began to decrease steadily. By the 1960s, there were fewer than 5000 births per year with the name Gail, and this trend continued into the 1970s and 1980s.
In recent years, the popularity of the name Gail has continued to decline. In the 2000s, there were less than 30 births per year with the name Gail, and in the 2010s, this number dropped even further, with only a handful of births per year being named Gail.
Overall, the total number of births named Gail in the United States from 1881 to 2022 is 201711. Despite its decline in popularity, Gail remains a unique and historic name that has been given to thousands of individuals over the course of more than a century.