WHALE

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Whale

Whale is a surname of English origin that can be traced back to medieval times. The name is believed to have originated as a nickname for someone who resembled a whale in some way, either in terms of size or shape. Another theory suggests that it may have been a occupational surname for a whaler or someone involved in the whaling industry.

The surname Whale is recorded in various forms throughout history, including "Whales," "Whayle," and "Wale." The first known recording of the name dates back to the 12th century in Norfolk, England.

Over the centuries, bearers of the surname Whale have been found in various parts of England, including Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement.

Notable individuals with the surname Whale include Ralph Whale, a renowned Australian rugby player, and Emily Whale, a British author and journalist.

In modern times, the surname Whale continues to be passed down through generations, keeping alive the heritage and history associated with this distinctive English name.

There are approximately 2,964 people named Whale in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,018th most common surname in Britain. Around 46 in a million people in Britain are named Whale.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

Andrew
Anthony
David
Geoff
Ian
James
John
Mark
Martin
Matthew
Michael
Peter
Roy
Stephen

Female

Alison
Christine
Claire
Emma
Helen
Joan
Julia
Margaret
Mary
Rebecca
Sarah
Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.