Gale

Gale is an English surname with two distinct etymological origins. The primary origin derives from the Middle English word gaile, meaning "jovial" or "merry". This is an example of a nickname surname, referring to the cheerful or spirited character of an original bearer. In some cases, the surname may also be a habitational name from place names like Gale in Lancashire or Yorkshire, but the nickname origin is the most commonly accepted. The surname is of early medieval English, making its debut in records within the latter part of the 12th century.

The unrelated homonym gale refers to a strong wind, as defined on Wikipedia in a entry for the word—origins tied to Norse languages and used in nautical contexts—but the given name and surname are not derived from this climatic term.

Notable bearers do appear in the extracts, such as Anthony Gale, the fourth Commandant of the U.S.S. Marine Corps or Geoffrey of Monmouth, the author mentioned indirectly. A widespread connection to given names includes female use; Gale also serves as a diminutive of Gale 2 or as a variant Gayle. A shortened rendition Gal exists or its nickname style reflecting affectionate commentary.

• Meaning: "jovial" (Middle English gaile)
• Origin: English
• Type: Nickname surname (also sometimes habitational)
• Usage regions: Primarily English-speaking countries