Kale Unisex
Origin(s)
PronunciationKAYL / /keɪl/English; Irish
Meaning
English: 'young, green vegetable'; Irish: 'slender'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Kale has roots in multiple linguistic traditions, primarily deriving from the Old Irish word "caol," meaning "slender" or "narrow." This term evolved through various forms, eventually influencing the modern usage of the name. The name also has connections to the Hebrew word "kalev," meaning "dog," which appears in biblical texts, notably referring to Caleb, a prominent figure in the Hebrew Bible known for his faithfulness and bravery during the Israelite's exodus from Egypt. The name's journey into English can be traced through the Latin and Old French adaptations, where it maintained a similar phonetic structure, leading to its current form in contemporary English usage.
Historically, the name Kale has been associated with various cultural and religious figures, particularly in the context of biblical narratives. Caleb, as a biblical figure, has been a significant reference point since antiquity, representing loyalty and strength. His story is recounted in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Joshua, where he is celebrated for his unwavering faith and leadership. This association with a strong, virtuous character has contributed to the name's enduring presence in various cultures, particularly among those with Judeo-Christian backgrounds.
In addition to its biblical connections, the name Kale has also found resonance in various cultural contexts, often symbolizing qualities such as resilience and integrity. The name's simplicity and strong phonetic quality lend it a timeless appeal, while its associations with historical figures contribute to its significance. The diminutive form "Kal" may also be noted, though its use varies across cultures. Overall, the name Kale encapsulates a blend of linguistic heritage and cultural significance, reflecting both historical depth and symbolic meaning.
Trend Summary
Kale has seen a rise in popularity in the United States, particularly in the 21st century.
Similar Names
Variants
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International Variants
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Famous people named Kale
Kale McCarr is a professional ice hockey player best known for playing with the Colorado Avalanche and winning the Stanley Cup.
Fictional characters named Kale
Kale is a fictional character from the video game series Dragon Ball. He is a Saiyan who becomes a major character in the Dragon Ball Super storyline, known for her powerful transformations and fighting abilities.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Kale was first seen in the United States in 1917. Kale has ranked as high as #880 nationally, which occurred in 2008, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma. In the past 5 years the name Kale has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Kale (2017)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
IN | 7 | |
FL | 6 | |
KS | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1917 | 6 |
1925 | 11 |
1937 | 5 |
1945 | 6 |
1952 | 5 |
1953 | 5 |
1956 | 12 |
1957 | 7 |
1958 | 7 |
1959 | 5 |
1960 | 9 |
1961 | 8 |
1962 | 16 |
1963 | 14 |
1964 | 9 |
1965 | 7 |
1966 | 9 |
1967 | 13 |
1968 | 16 |
1969 | 16 |
1970 | 28 |
1971 | 27 |
1972 | 20 |
1973 | 32 |
1974 | 30 |
1975 | 36 |
1976 | 32 |
1977 | 36 |
1978 | 44 |
1979 | 37 |
1980 | 43 |
1981 | 51 |
1982 | 42 |
1983 | 49 |
1984 | 65 |
1985 | 92 |
1986 | 83 |
1987 | 119 |
1988 | 108 |
1989 | 93 |
1990 | 108 |
1991 | 91 |
1992 | 100 |
1993 | 109 |
1994 | 107 |
1995 | 94 |
1996 | 93 |
1997 | 103 |
1998 | 137 |
1999 | 128 |
2000 | 150 |
2001 | 158 |
2002 | 179 |
2003 | 184 |
2004 | 225 |
2005 | 264 |
2006 | 272 |
2007 | 382 |
2008 | 544 |
2009 | 521 |
2010 | 423 |
2011 | 424 |
2012 | 325 |
2013 | 259 |
2014 | 216 |
2015 | 177 |
2016 | 101 |
2017 | 62 |
2018 | 46 |
2019 | 26 |
2020 | 25 |
2021 | 28 |
2022 | 23 |
2023 | 13 |
2024 | 18 |