Gael
Gael first appears in US records in 1919. It peaked in 2024, when 3,872 boys were given the name; in 2025 there were 3,860.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Gael popular?
Near its peak Gael is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2024.
| 2020s | 21,645 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 20,344 | |
| 2000s | 6,911 | |
| 1990s | 97 | |
| 1980s | 6 | |
| 1950s | 8 | |
| 1940s | 30 | |
| 1930s | 23 | |
| 1920s | 10 | |
| 1910s | 5 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Gael mean?
A name of disputed origin, now very popular in Spanish-speaking countries (notably through actor Gael García Bernal). It is usually tied to Brittany, either as a short form of the Breton Gwenael (gwenn 'white, blessed' + hael 'generous') or to the Gaels, the Celtic peoples. No single etymology is firmly established.
Names like Gael
spanish names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Gael
Popular spanish names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Gael
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Gael mean?
Gael means uncertain; Breton 'generous'. A name of disputed origin, now very popular in Spanish-speaking countries (notably through actor Gael García Bernal). It is usually tied to Brittany, either as a short form of the Breton Gwenael (gwenn 'white, blessed' + hael 'generous') or to the Gaels, the Celtic peoples. No single etymology is firmly established.
What is the origin of the name Gael?
Gael is of spanish origin.
How do you pronounce Gael?
Gael is pronounced “gah-EL.”
Is Gael a boy or a girl name?
Gael is most commonly used as a boy name.
Is Gael a popular name right now?
Gael is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2024.
How popular is the name Gael?
In 2025, Gael ranked #86 among boys’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Gael most popular?
Gael was most popular in 2024, when about 3,872 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Gael?
Names similar to Gael include Emiliano, Alejandro, Nicolás, Manuel, Javier.
What names go well with Gael?
spanish names that pair well with Gael include Linda, Benjamín, Mía, Angel, Mateo.