Blake Name Meaning – What Does The Name Blake Mean?

What does the name Blake Mean? In this quick guide, we will explore the origin, history, popularity, and meaning of the name Blake. 

Let’s get started. 

Meaning of The Name Blake

The name Blake is of English and German origin. It means ‘dark, fair-skinned’ and originated in Old English with the word ‘blac.’

This name eventually evolved into the Scottish clan of Shakespearian fame. Blake has different elements depending on the language it’s derived from.

In Old English, it meant “black”; in Middle English, it meant “fair-skinned”; and in modern usage, Blake can be used to refer to someone who has pale skin or dark hair. Blake is both a surname and given name. In terms of popularity, its peak came about in the early 1990s when it got as high as number 39 on SSAs list for U.S newborns ever since then, however it hasn’t been particularly popular as either a first or last name throughout its history.

Despite its lack of popularity in recent years, Blake is still widely thought of as a timeless classic that stands out due to its unusual combination of meanings and international heritage which provides an interesting complexity behind the name–meaning that many people may find quite attractive when looking for suitable names for their children.

History and Origin of The Name Blake

The name Blake is derived from the Anglo-Saxon word “blac,” meaning dark and fair. In Old English, the word for “black” also meant “burning” as in charcoal or hot coals. This led to the development of a surname meaning dark and strong.

The name Blake is thought to have originated in Scotland during medieval times. It was then introduced to England by Norman settlers who spread the name throughout the country. The earliest known bearer of the name was recorded in 1260, when one Richard le Blak was noted in Scotland’s Ragman Rolls.

In some cases, it has been suggested that Blake may be an acquired nickname derived from an ancestor with a black complexion or even for one with a fierce temper! The name spread to North America and Australia during the 19th century when many English families emigrated looking for new opportunities and a new way of life.

Blake has become increasingly popular over recent years due it its trendy spelling and sound that fit in perfectly with other contemporary boy names like Noah, Ryan, Jack and Logan. It is also cherished due to its ties to various celebrities including actor/musician Blake Shelton; actor/magician Blake Lively; singer/songwriter Blake Lewis; Canadian entrepreneur Robert Herjevic; and British actor/producer Ed O’Neill, among others.

Gender of The Name Blake

The gender of the name Blake is traditionally male, with its roots stemming from Old English. Today, it has become popular for girls which is the result of a common trend among parents in America and Europe to use names with gender neutrality or even to choose female variants of male names for their daughters.

However, though it has become increasingly common for girls to bear this name as well, some parents may prefer to stick to the age-old gender-based distinction when naming their babies.

Overall, regardless of its gender designation, the name Blake brings with it certain characteristics including courage and strength as inspired by its Old English roots and enduring popularity among both genders.

It also speaks to a lively personality in tune with modern day trends since its fame has been shaped by many notable personalities including actors, athletes and influential figures across numerous societies.

Popularity of The Name Blake

Popularity of the name Blake has been increasing in recent decades due to the growing number of character actors that share it. Its popularity is further boosted by its association with several celebrity names such as Blake Lively and Blake Shelton.

The name is also a frequent choice for parents who are looking for something different from the usual common baby names, yet still want a strong and noble-sounding option.

Blake has a variety of meanings depending on its origin. In Old English, it was derived from ‘blaec’, which means ‘dark’ and ‘black’; it was also used to describe someone who had dark hair or complexion.

In Gaelic culture, however, it can be seen as meaning ‘son of the pale one’ or if taken from Irish culture, can mean ‘son of Robert’ due to its association with Robert the Bruce. Whatever its origins may be, others associate this name with strength and status due to famous characters in literature such as Lord Byron’s Don Juan characters Childe Harold and Don Pedro Lopez.

Though frequently associated with strong males, there are many prominent female role models who bear the same name including actress Blake Lively and musician Florence Welch.

As such, the name is suitable for both genders although appears more commonly amongst males according to U.S statistics published in 2018 when more than 860 boys were named Blake versus less than 350 girls given this moniker that year alone.

Variations of The Name Blake

The name Blake has been used in several cultures and languages since antiquity, although its use and meaning is sometimes disputed. Variations of this name include Blayke, Blayk, Blayke, Blakey and Blakely.

In the English-speaking world, the most popular version of the name is Blake. This version originated from pre-seventh century old Germanic words meaning “black” and “meadow”.

In French, the name became popular beginning in the 12th century as an occupational surname with a similar range of meanings given its roots in old French words that indicate real estate or licensing fees (‘blac’), pallor (‘bleu’) or sword (‘bal/balc/baleis).

The Irish form of the name is O Blathmhaic, derived from old Gaelic elements meaning “butterfly” or “hope” depending on interpretation. The Scottish variant is MacLais, which likely originated from a Gaelic element indicating son or offspring.

Although its origin has been interpreted differently around the world throughout history, people named Blake often share similar traits such as strong willed nature and leadership capabilities making it a suitable choice for parents looking for a classic English baby name for their child.

Famous People Named Blake in History

Blake is an English name that dates back to medieval times and was popularized most recently in the South of England. The name Blake is relatively rare but has a number of famous people that have been associated with it throughout history.

The poet and artist William Blake was a very influential figure in England in the late 18th century and was the author of both literary works and visual art. William Butler Yeats, one of Ireland’s preeminent poets, used his own full name as an homage to Blake.

Another famous poet has also been associated with the name, Poet Laureate Robert Bridges whose surname was also Blake.

Other people who have borne the name include actors Orlando Bloom (real first name: Blake) and Ryan O’Neal (real surname: O’Neill) as well as former Prime Minister Tony Blair (born Anthony Charles Lynton Blair).

Other notable individuals include recording artist Blake Shelton, surfer Kelly Slater, scientists Edward Lester Powell and Frederick William Henry Budden, professional cyclist Lance Armstrong, musician Philip Anselmo of Pantera fame, NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III (aka RGIII), rocker Brad Delson from Linkin Park, fashion designer Alexander McQueen (born Lee Alexander McQueen), movie critic Roger Ebert (surname: Ebert) & amputee mountain climber Aron Ralston (surname: O’Ralston).

Pronunciation of The Name Blake

The name “Blake” is pronounced “blayk” (rhymes with “slay-k”). The origin of the name Blake is from Old English and means “fair-haired, dark”. It could also be a derivative of the name Blaise, which has its roots in old French language.

The meaning of the Blake surname at its original inception is steeped in mystery; although there are numerous theories ranging from geographical localized placename origins to nickname derivations. The variations in spelling over time have created many versions of the same name though; including Black, Bleake, Bleck, and Blaik.

Blake is considered an appropriate name for a baby boy or girl; however it has grown more popular among boys over recent years. It was originally a common Anglo-Saxon surname which found some favor during the Middle Ages when it was adopted by well-known families such as the Lords Berkeley or William Blake (the 18th century poet and artist).

In modern times Blake has been used for both genders and is especially associated with celebrity offspring.

Numerology of The Name Blake

The numerology of the name Blake can provide insight into someone’s character. Numerology is based on the principle that names have an inherent power and can influence a person’s life.

Using the Pythagorean system of numerology, each letter of the alphabet is associated with a particular number: A=1, B=2, C=3, and so on.

To calculate the numerology of a name or word, we assign each letter it numerical equivalent and add them together to get the ‘number’. The number provides information about character traits that are associated with that particular combination of letters.

In Blake’s case, this gives us a total value of 10 (2+3+2+5). In numerology, 10 is associated with balance. People whose names correspond to this number usually strive hard for justice but lack perceived strength as far as relationships are concerned; they tend to be considerate and enjoy cooperation yet desire friendship from a distance.

They respect higher authorities but will also challenge accepted beliefs when necessary. They often feel like outsiders even amidst friends or family due to their independent nature; however they are admired for their sense of respect and morality.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Name Blake

What Is The Background and Meaning of The Name Blake?

The classic baby name Blake has traditionally been a popular choice for parents. Its origin traces back to England and Ireland during the Middle Ages. The name is derived from an Old English word for “dark” or “pale” in reference to hair color, or it can be an abbreviated form of any of the various Norman French names ending in “-blake” or “-bleik”.

What Are Some Nicknames for The Name Blake?

Common nicknames for this beloved baby name include Blaky, Blakey, Blayke, Bleeke and Bleik. If you need something a bit more uncommon, suggested alternatives could be Kye, Lark, Ella Mae and Brooke.

What Are Some Variations of The Name Blake?

Variations on this timeless classic are Blanca (Spanish), Blanka (Czech/Russian), Blyke (Frisian), Beulah (Hebrew) and Bruch (German). You can also find some creative variants such as Blacqayle, Blacqel and Blackirie.

Conclusion

The name Blake can be a meaningful and thoughtful name choice for a baby boy. It evokes the traditions of its Old English origin while giving it a modern twist. The multiple interpretations of its meaning give parents the flexibility to choose which definition speaks more truly to them, whether it be ‘dark and fair’, ‘light’, or ‘son of a dark-skinned man’.

Blake is also an appropriate name for any part of the world, making it an excellent multicultural choice. Finally, its short length is appealing in both sound and spelling, making it easy to remember and spell out.

Whichever meaning suits your family best may make the ideal namesake for your little Blake!