“A fertile place.” — Associated with Yale University
Welsh origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#14240US 2022
5Births / yr
↓Falling
1.4kAll-time births
📅 Since 190800
How to pronounce Yale
YAYL
/ˈjeɪl/ · stress on YAYL · 1 syllable
“A fertile place.”
Associated with Yale University · Welsh origin
What does Yale mean and where does it come from?
Yale has origins in both Welsh and English contexts. In Welsh, it is linked to the term 'yale' meaning 'the vale,' indicating a geographic significance. The name Yale can also be associated with Yale University, founded in 1701, which lends it notability in academic circles. The first recorded use o
Cultural significance
Yale has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Welsh-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a fertile place..
Peak popularity
Reached #1296 in 1916 — currently #14240 in the US.
Falling — down 3656 spots — currently #14240 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2022#14240 · Top 11%
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2022
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2022
#14240
5
▼ down 3656 · -17% births
2020
#10584
6
▼ down 3054 · -40% births
2015
#7530
10
▲ up 3303 · +67% births
2010
#10833
6
▼ down 3138 · -33% births
2005
#7695
9
▼ down 1730 · -18% births
2000
#5965
11
▼ down 1651 · -21% births
1995
#4314
14
▲ up 393 · +27% births
1990
#4707
11
▲ up 63 · +38% births
1985
#4770
8
▼ down 566 · -11% births
1980
#4204
9
▲ up 698 · +50% births
1975
#4902
6
▼ down 2748 · -67% births
1970
#2154
18
▲ up 257 · +50% births
1965
#2411
12
▼ down 332 · -25% births
1960
#2079
16
▲ up 422 · +45% births
1955
#2501
11
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Yale
1930Rank #1677
20
#4534
↘Falling
1915 - 202223 years
The story of Yale
Yale entered American naming records in 1908 and has been in use for over 116 years. With 1,410 total births recorded, Yale remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1854 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14240 in 2022.
Yale means "A fertile place." — a name rooted in Welsh 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 Yale?
Yale is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Yale?
Yale originates from Welsh tradition. Welsh 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 Yale?
Yale is a one-syllable name pronounced Y EY1 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Yale sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Yale flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Yale ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Yale
For a sister
Yale & Glynice♡
Yale & Reese♡
Yale & Gavin♡
Yale & Elian♡
For a brother
Yale & Reese♡
Yale & Gavin♡
Yale & Elian♡
Yale & Morgan♡
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