Neale
Boy name · 101 babies recorded · 1974–2025
Neale: 101 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to boys, peaking at 13 births in 1986.
The name Neale is an English and Scottish variant of Neil, which itself derives from the Irish Gaelic name Niall, its meaning debated but often connected to the Old Irish word *niadh*, meaning "champion" or "cloud". It came to Scotland through the powerful of Clan MacNeil, whose stronghold was Kisimul Castle on the Isle of Barra. Famous bearers include Neale Donald Walsch, the American author of the *Conversations with God* series, and Neale Fraser, the Australian tennis champion who won multiple Grand Slams in the 1950s and 60s. A notable place connection is the town of Nairn, whose name may share a similar root. While less common than the standard spelling Neil, Neale carries a distinguished, slightly more formal air.
Boy 16 of 52 years
- Peak year
- 198613 babies
- Latest (1997)
- #4033 babies
- Total births
- 101since 1976
- 5-year trend
- ▼ 56%vs prior 5y