What does Blake mean and where does it come from?
Blake is traditionally a gender-neutral name, but it has found particular favor as a female name in recent decades. Originating from England as a surname, it became popular as a first name in the 20th century. The dual meanings reflect a range of characteristics, from mysterious to charming. Notable
Cultural significance
Blake has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in England-speaking communities, where it reflects values of old english.
Peak popularity
Reached #219 in 2020 — currently #221 in the US.
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Related Reading
England-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Blake?
Blake works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Blake Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Blake Rose
Floral · soft ending
Blake Mae
Sweet · timeless
Blake Claire
French influence · crisp
Blake Jane
Literary · strong
Blake Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Blake right now?
Declining — down 21 spots — currently #221 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #221 | 1,351 | ▼ down 21 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #200 | 1,448 | stable · -4% births |
| 2021 | #200 | 1,502 | ▲ up 19 · +14% births |
| 2020 | #219 | 1,316 | ▲ up 204 · +75% births |
| 2015 | #423 | 752 | ▲ up 611 · +212% births |
| 2010 | #1034 | 241 | ▲ up 1105 · +180% births |
| 2005 | #2139 | 86 | ▼ down 1024 · -53% births |
| 2000 | #1115 | 183 | ▼ down 188 · -10% births |
| 1995 | #927 | 203 | ▲ up 11 |
| 1990 | #938 | 202 | ▲ up 874 · +226% births |
| 1985 | #1812 | 62 | ▲ up 632 · +59% births |
| 1980 | #2444 | 39 | ▲ up 449 · +56% births |
| 1975 | #2893 | 25 | ▲ up 700 · +47% births |
| 1970 | #3593 | 17 | ▲ up 646 · +70% births |
| 1965 | #4239 | 10 | — |
The story of Blake
Blake entered American naming records in 1951 and has been in use for over 73 years. More than 192,473 babies have been named Blake since 1951. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4239 in 1965 to #221 in 2023. Blake is used for both genders: 7% female and 93% male.
Names that peaked alongside Blake in 2020:
Blake by decade
Blake peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 19 | |
| 1890s | 37 | |
| 1900s | 45 | |
| 1910s | 260 | |
| 1920s | 414 | |
| 1930s | 320 | |
| 1940s | 583 | |
| 1950s | 2,606 | |
| 1960s | 4,810 | |
| 1970s | 5,682 | |
| 1980s | 26,143 | |
| 1990s | 47,782 | |
| 2000s ★ | 51,426 | |
| 2010s | 49,233 | |
| 2020s | 3,113 | |
What are good nicknames for Blake?
What names sound and feel like Blake?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Blake also consider these
Common questions about the name Blake
What does the name Blake mean?
Blake means "Old English" — a name rooted in England tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Blake?
Blake is currently ranked #221 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Blake?
Blake originates from England tradition. England names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Blake?
Blake is a one-syllable name pronounced B L EY1 K. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Blake sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Blake flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Blake ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.