Blake Unisex
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 The surname Blake was recorded as early as the 13th century, with notable instances appearing in various historical documents, indicating its established presence in English society.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
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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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 106 | |
TX | 97 | |
FL | 85 | |
NY | 81 | |
MI | 75 | |
PA | 72 | |
OH | 52 | |
NC | 37 | |
WA | 37 | |
GA | 37 | |
MO | 36 | |
IL | 33 | |
VA | 33 | |
IN | 32 | |
MD | 30 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1883 | 5 |
1886 | 9 |
1888 | 5 |
1890 | 5 |
1892 | 8 |
1893 | 6 |
1894 | 7 |
1895 | 5 |
1897 | 6 |
1900 | 5 |
1901 | 5 |
1903 | 7 |
1904 | 5 |
1906 | 9 |
1908 | 6 |
1909 | 8 |
1910 | 10 |
1911 | 12 |
1912 | 13 |
1913 | 16 |
1914 | 20 |
1915 | 38 |
1916 | 29 |
1917 | 38 |
1918 | 39 |
1919 | 45 |
1920 | 50 |
1921 | 61 |
1922 | 39 |
1923 | 42 |
1924 | 41 |
1925 | 37 |
1926 | 36 |
1927 | 41 |
1928 | 37 |
1929 | 30 |
1930 | 29 |
1931 | 31 |
1932 | 33 |
1933 | 41 |
1934 | 36 |
1935 | 34 |
1936 | 30 |
1937 | 28 |
1938 | 28 |
1939 | 30 |
1940 | 33 |
1941 | 33 |
1942 | 44 |
1943 | 58 |
1944 | 42 |
1945 | 51 |
1946 | 71 |
1947 | 86 |
1948 | 76 |
1949 | 89 |
1950 | 131 |
1951 | 139 |
1952 | 212 |
1953 | 207 |
1954 | 279 |
1955 | 279 |
1956 | 282 |
1957 | 288 |
1958 | 367 |
1959 | 411 |
1960 | 433 |
1961 | 511 |
1962 | 545 |
1963 | 569 |
1964 | 472 |
1965 | 445 |
1966 | 400 |
1967 | 422 |
1968 | 403 |
1969 | 521 |
1970 | 526 |
1971 | 476 |
1972 | 463 |
1973 | 427 |
1974 | 419 |
1975 | 523 |
1976 | 554 |
1977 | 644 |
1978 | 668 |
1979 | 744 |
1980 | 971 |
1981 | 1,702 |
1982 | 2,353 |
1983 | 2,497 |
1984 | 2,757 |
1985 | 2,922 |
1986 | 2,789 |
1987 | 2,785 |
1988 | 3,099 |
1989 | 3,523 |
1990 | 4,102 |
1991 | 4,275 |
1992 | 4,396 |
1993 | 4,504 |
1994 | 4,879 |
1995 | 4,820 |
1996 | 4,747 |
1997 | 4,728 |
1998 | 4,607 |
1999 | 4,812 |
2000 | 5,143 |
2001 | 5,356 |
2002 | 5,358 |
2003 | 5,275 |
2004 | 4,694 |
2005 | 4,418 |
2006 | 4,537 |
2007 | 5,277 |
2008 | 5,099 |
2009 | 4,952 |
2010 | 4,703 |
2011 | 5,616 |
2012 | 6,047 |
2013 | 5,649 |
2014 | 4,948 |
2015 | 4,233 |
2016 | 3,289 |
2017 | 2,626 |
2018 | 2,465 |
2019 | 2,141 |
2020 | 1,813 |
2021 | 1,848 |
2022 | 1,579 |
2023 | 1,372 |
2024 | 1,311 |