Val Unisex
Origin(s)
Pronunciationval / vælLatin; 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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1882 | 5 |
1885 | 5 |
1886 | 5 |
1890 | 6 |
1897 | 8 |
1898 | 5 |
1900 | 7 |
1902 | 9 |
1903 | 5 |
1904 | 5 |
1906 | 7 |
1907 | 10 |
1908 | 7 |
1909 | 6 |
1910 | 6 |
1911 | 5 |
1912 | 22 |
1913 | 24 |
1914 | 18 |
1915 | 28 |
1916 | 35 |
1917 | 37 |
1918 | 34 |
1919 | 28 |
1920 | 37 |
1921 | 32 |
1922 | 37 |
1923 | 61 |
1924 | 37 |
1925 | 40 |
1926 | 39 |
1927 | 52 |
1928 | 57 |
1929 | 44 |
1930 | 65 |
1931 | 56 |
1932 | 69 |
1933 | 67 |
1934 | 63 |
1935 | 77 |
1936 | 75 |
1937 | 71 |
1938 | 78 |
1939 | 80 |
1940 | 84 |
1941 | 74 |
1942 | 103 |
1943 | 71 |
1944 | 87 |
1945 | 71 |
1946 | 105 |
1947 | 116 |
1948 | 129 |
1949 | 132 |
1950 | 138 |
1951 | 138 |
1952 | 178 |
1953 | 156 |
1954 | 148 |
1955 | 150 |
1956 | 168 |
1957 | 142 |
1958 | 127 |
1959 | 130 |
1960 | 122 |
1961 | 88 |
1962 | 102 |
1963 | 97 |
1964 | 77 |
1965 | 73 |
1966 | 64 |
1967 | 68 |
1968 | 48 |
1969 | 62 |
1970 | 58 |
1971 | 52 |
1972 | 41 |
1973 | 41 |
1974 | 36 |
1975 | 27 |
1976 | 16 |
1977 | 36 |
1978 | 21 |
1979 | 28 |
1980 | 23 |
1981 | 26 |
1982 | 14 |
1983 | 9 |
1984 | 15 |
1985 | 16 |
1986 | 14 |
1987 | 9 |
1988 | 7 |
1989 | 14 |
1990 | 16 |
1991 | 14 |
1992 | 13 |
1993 | 11 |
1994 | 16 |
1995 | 9 |
1996 | 14 |
1997 | 17 |
1998 | 27 |
1999 | 14 |
2000 | 21 |
2001 | 12 |
2002 | 14 |
2003 | 13 |
2004 | 12 |
2005 | 13 |
2006 | 11 |
2007 | 8 |
2008 | 6 |
2009 | 9 |
2010 | 8 |
2011 | 8 |
2012 | 7 |
2014 | 10 |
2015 | 12 |
2016 | 6 |
2017 | 12 |
2018 | 8 |
2019 | 10 |
2020 | 6 |
2021 | 10 |
2022 | 16 |
2023 | 19 |
2024 | 17 |