Log in · Sign up

Val Unisex

Popularity: #907 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

Pronunciationval / væl

Latin; English

Meaning

Latin: strong; English: valor

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Val has its roots in the Latin word "valens," which means "strong" or "powerful." This Latin term evolved into various forms in different languages, leading to the Old French "Val" and the Italian "Valle," both of which retained the connotation of strength. The name made its way into English through the influence of Norman French following the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, where it was adopted as a given name and also used as a surname.

Historically, the name Val has been associated with several notable figures. In the context of Christianity, Saint Valentine, a 3rd-century martyr, is one of the most recognized saints bearing a name derived from the same Latin root. His feast day, celebrated on February 14, has become synonymous with love and affection, further enhancing the name's cultural significance. Additionally, in the realm of literature, the name Val has appeared in various works, contributing to its recognition in different contexts.

Culturally, the name Val has been embraced in various traditions, often symbolizing strength and valor. It has been used in various forms across different cultures, with diminutive forms such as "Vali" or "Valo" appearing in some contexts. The enduring nature of the name can be attributed to its strong etymological roots and the positive attributes associated with its meaning. As a name, Val encapsulates a sense of resilience and fortitude, making it a timeless choice across generations.

Trend Summary

The name Val has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, often peaking in the mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Valen
  • Valentino

International Variants

  • Valentino (Italian)
  • Valentin (French)
  • Valerio (Spanish)

Famous people named Val

Val Kilmer is an actor best known for Top Gun, Batman Forever, and The Doors.

Fictional characters named Val

Val is a fictional character from the video game series Final Fantasy. They are a prominent character in Final Fantasy XIV, known for their role in the game's expansive narrative and lore.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Val was first seen in the United States in 1882. Val has ranked as high as #858 nationally, which occurred in 1952, and has been most popular in Utah, California, Idaho, New York, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Val has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Val (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18825
18855
18865
18906
18978
18985
19007
19029
19035
19045
19067
190710
19087
19096
19106
19115
191222
191324
191418
191528
191635
191737
191834
191928
192037
192132
192237
192361
192437
192540
192639
192752
192857
192944
193065
193156
193269
193367
193463
193577
193675
193771
193878
193980
194084
194174
1942103
194371
194487
194571
1946105
1947116
1948129
1949132
1950138
1951138
1952178
1953156
1954148
1955150
1956168
1957142
1958127
1959130
1960122
196188
1962102
196397
196477
196573
196664
196768
196848
196962
197058
197152
197241
197341
197436
197527
197616
197736
197821
197928
198023
198126
198214
19839
198415
198516
198614
19879
19887
198914
199016
199114
199213
199311
199416
19959
199614
199717
199827
199914
200021
200112
200214
200313
200412
200513
200611
20078
20086
20099
20108
20118
20127
201410
201512
20166
201712
20188
201910
20206
202110
202216
202319
202417