Gayl, of Norman origin, is a unique and distinctive given name. It is derived from the Old French word 'gale', meaning 'cheerful'. This name was first introduced into England during the medieval period following the Norman conquest in 1066. Gayl was traditionally used as both a masculine and feminine name, adding to its versatility and rarity.
"Gayl was quite popular in the mid-1930s, with five babies named Gayl born each year from 1933 to 1938, and another five in 1942."