US Popularity Rank: 27087

Origin: British

Meaning: Valley; Person who lives by the outer wall of a castle

Bale is a boy’s given name and surname of English and French origin. It may be related to the word “vale,” meaning “valley,” and is a possible variant of the surname Vail. Alternatively, it may derive from the Old French word bail or baille (enclosure). In that case, it would have been a habitational name given to someone who lived near a bailey, or the outer wall of a castle. “Bale” is also a word referring to a large bundle, usually of hay. As a surname, Bale has been famously borne by actor Christian Bale and Welsh soccer player Gareth Bale. As a first name, it’s less common, making it a great choice if you want baby to stand out from the crowd.