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Blake Unisex

Popularity: #250 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

Pronunciationblayk / /bleɪk/

English; Old English

Meaning

Dark; fair

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Blake has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "blæc," meaning "black" or "dark," and "blac," meaning "pale" or "white." This duality in meaning is significant, as it reflects the name's early associations with physical characteristics. The name was used as a surname before it transitioned into a given name, particularly during the Middle Ages in England. The surname Blake was recorded as early as the 13th century, with notable instances appearing in various historical documents, indicating its established presence in English society.

One of the most prominent historical figures associated with the name is the 17th-century poet and artist William Blake, known for his unique contributions to literature and visual arts. His works, which include "Songs of Innocence and of Experience," published in the late 18th century, have left a lasting impact on English literature and art. Additionally, the name has been borne by various notable individuals throughout history, including military leaders and politicians, further embedding it in the cultural fabric of England.

Culturally, the name Blake has been associated with strength and resilience, often linked to the imagery of darkness and light, which can symbolize the duality of human experience. This thematic resonance has allowed the name to endure through centuries, appealing to various generations. The diminutive form "Blakey" has also emerged, often used affectionately in familial contexts, though it is less common in formal usage. Overall, the name Blake carries a rich historical and cultural significance, reflecting its evolution from a descriptive term to a distinguished personal name.

Trend Summary

Blake has seen a steady rise in popularity in the United States, particularly since the 1990s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Blayke

International Variants

Famous people named Blake

Blake Lively is an actress best known for Gossip Girl, The Age of Adaline, and A Simple Favor.

Blake Shelton is a country music singer best known for Austin, Honey Bee, and God's Country.

Blake Griffin is a professional basketball player best known for his time with the Los Angeles Clippers, winning the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, and being a multiple-time NBA All-Star.

Blake Anderson is an actor and comedian best known for Workaholics, The Package, and Dope.

Blake Lewis is a singer and songwriter best known for being a finalist on American Idol and for his album Audio Daydream.

Fictional characters named Blake

Blake is a fictional character from the TV series Blake's 7. He is the leader of a group of rebels fighting against a totalitarian regime in a dystopian future.

Blake is a fictional character from the comic book series The Sandman. They are a member of the Endless, embodying the concept of dreams and influencing the dream world.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Blake was first seen in the United States in 1883. Blake has ranked as high as #102 nationally, which occurred in 2012, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Blake has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Blake (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 106
9%
TX 97
8%
FL 85
7%
NY 81
7%
MI 75
6%
PA 72
6%
OH 52
4%
NC 37
3%
WA 37
3%
GA 37
3%
MO 36
3%
IL 33
3%
VA 33
3%
IN 32
3%
MD 30
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18835
18869
18885
18905
18928
18936
18947
18955
18976
19005
19015
19037
19045
19069
19086
19098
191010
191112
191213
191316
191420
191538
191629
191738
191839
191945
192050
192161
192239
192342
192441
192537
192636
192741
192837
192930
193029
193131
193233
193341
193436
193534
193630
193728
193828
193930
194033
194133
194244
194358
194442
194551
194671
194786
194876
194989
1950131
1951139
1952212
1953207
1954279
1955279
1956282
1957288
1958367
1959411
1960433
1961511
1962545
1963569
1964472
1965445
1966400
1967422
1968403
1969521
1970526
1971476
1972463
1973427
1974419
1975523
1976554
1977644
1978668
1979744
1980971
19811,702
19822,353
19832,497
19842,757
19852,922
19862,789
19872,785
19883,099
19893,523
19904,102
19914,275
19924,396
19934,504
19944,879
19954,820
19964,747
19974,728
19984,607
19994,812
20005,143
20015,356
20025,358
20035,275
20044,694
20054,418
20064,537
20075,277
20085,099
20094,952
20104,703
20115,616
20126,047
20135,649
20144,948
20154,233
20163,289
20172,626
20182,465
20192,141
20201,813
20211,848
20221,579
20231,372
20241,311