Dale

Fact-checked by Jaime Babiera

1. Dale name meaning and origin

The name Dale derives from Old English 'dæl,' meaning 'valley.' As a topographical name, it was used to describe people living near a valley. While it appears to be the common origin, the name Dale is believed to come from various cultures. Some people often associate it with the Old Norse term ‘Dali,’ which also means ‘valley.’ The same thing goes for the German name ‘Dahl,’ which also pertains to ‘valley.’

As a given name, Dale gained peak popularity primarily in English-speaking countries like the US during the mid-20th century. The name embodies natural imagery and evokes pastoral landscapes, which contributed to its steady usage particularly in rural or tradition-oriented communities. While historically more common for males, Dale has occasionally appeared as a feminine name, too, in modern naming practices.

Dale

References:

2. Dale name popularity

Girl

Boy

in 2023

from 2022

Popularity of Dale

United States

United Kingdom

Dale is a gender-neutral name with roots in Old English, where it originally referred to someone who lived in a valley (derived from "dael," meaning valley). While traditionally more common for males in both the United States and United Kingdom, it has been used for females as well, demonstrating its versatility across genders.

Though specific ranking data isn't available in this dataset, Dale experienced notable popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly for boys. The name carries a simple, strong quality with its single syllable and has maintained a steady presence without extreme fluctuations in usage, representing a classic choice that balances uniqueness with familiarity.

3. Dale in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

The name Dale has been used in various forms of fiction, both in classic literature and present media. A list of some prominent characters bearing the name in fictional works is listed below.

Literature:

Dale Cardigan - The main character of the young adult novel by Benjamin Lefebvre. Dale Cardigan is a queer, underground teenager and a music genius.

Film and Television:

Dale Cooper - From the series “Twin Peaks”. The lead character in the show is an FBI agent known for its quirky character and upbeat spirit.

Dale Gribble - From the animated series “King of the Hill”. A paranoid and eccentric conspiracy theorist.

Dale Horvath - From the television series “The Walking Dead”. One of the main characters in the and among the survivors of the zombie apocalypse.

Dale Doback - From the film “Step Brothers”. Dale is the son of Dr. Robert Doback. He has to live with his new stepbrother, Brennan.

Video Games:

Dale - From the video game “Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers”. One of the playable characters of the classic NES game from 1990.

4. Celebrities with the Name Dale

Aside from fiction, the name Lori has also been carried by real-life figures in entertainment, sports, and music. From actors to athletes, these celebrities have helped keep the name visible in popular culture.

Historical Figures:

Dale Carnegie (1888–1955)

A great American writer and lecturer. The author of a popular book about winning friends and making people follow, “How to Win Friends” and “Influence People”.

Image source: Wikipedia

Contemporary Celebrities:

Dale Earnhardt

A legendary American stock-car racing driver. Handing himself the name The Intimidator, he has taken seven NASCAR Cup Series titles as of writing.

Dale Earnhardt Jr.

A former race car driver who is known for competing in the Piston Cup Racing Series. Being the son of Dale Earnhardt, he inherited an enormous fan base and went on to lead a successful career.

Dale Evans

American songwriter, actress, and singer. She was known as the wife of a cowboy superstar, Roy Rogers, with whom she co-starred in many series of films and television shows, including The Roy Rogers Show.

Dale Chihuly

A famous American glass sculptor. His work of art made a resurgence of interest in that medium. Many of his glass sculptures are displayed in public spaces, such as Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables in Florida.

Dale Murphy

A former American professional baseball player who played for the Atlanta Braves. He was best known as a seven-time All-Star.

Dale Bozzio

The band leader and an American singer of the new wave group Missing Persons. Bozzio was an iconic personality of the new wave period due to her distinctive squeaky voice and vibrant stage presence.

Dale Robertson

A well-known American actor whose roles are mostly seen in television Westerns. He played the main role in the series Tales of Wells Fargo and Iron Horse.

5. Variations and nicknames of Dale

The name Dale has evolved into a popular given name with various linguistic roots and iterations across cultures. In English-speaking countries, Dale remains predominantly a masculine name, though it occasionally appears as a female name as well. Common variants include Dayle, which adds a stylistic 'y' while maintaining the original pronunciation, and Daile, an alternative spelling found in other regions. The more elaborate Daelan and Dalen occasionally appear as extended forms. Daly and Dal represent different adaptations of the name, reflecting the name's geographic meaning across cultures.

Nicknames for Dale tend toward simplicity, with many friends and family members opting for the affectionate 'D' as a casual reference. 'Daley' serves as a playful extension, while ‘Dalz’ ‘ occasionally emerges in social circles. Children named Dale might find themselves called ‘Dally’ or ‘Ally’ by grandparents or other relatives. In professional settings, the full 'Dale' is generally preferred, though close colleagues might use the playful diminutives mentioned earlier. The name's brevity limits extensive nicknaming opportunities, yet its friendly sound and unpretentious nature have helped maintain its steady popularity throughout generations, particularly in rural communities where its meaning resonates with the surrounding landscape.

6. Best name combinations with Dale

names that pair well with Dale:

Dale Alexander
Dale Anthony
Dale Warren
Dale Christopher
Dale Elliot
Dale Frederick
Dale Harrison
Dale Isaiah
Dale Percival
Dale Kendrick
Dale Lawrence
Dale Maxwell
Dale Nigel
Dale Oliver
Dale Preston
Dale Evan
Dale Sebastian
Dale Theodore
Dale Vincent
Dale William
Adrian Dale
Blake Dale
Herman Dale
Dominic Dale
Ethan Dale
Finn Dale
Graham Dale
Henry Dale
Isaac Dale
James Dale
Charles Dale
Liam Dale
Mason Dale
Noah Dale
Owen Dale
Parker Dale
Bernard Dale
Samuel Dale
Thomas Dale
Wesley Dale

7. Numerology of Dale name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

4
D(4) + A(1) + L(3) + E(5) = 13 = 1+3 = 4

Destiny Number 4 represents stability, discipline, and hard work. As a person with a Destiny Number 4, Dale is likely to be methodical, dependable, and reliable. In career matters, Dale thrives in structured environments where organization and long-term planning are valued, such as project management, architecture, or engineering. In relationships, Dale tends to be committed and loyal, preferring stable partnerships built on trust and shared vision rather than passionate but volatile connections.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

6
Vowels: A(1), E(5) = 6 = 6

Number 6 represents harmony, responsibility, and nurturing. Deep down, Dale desires to care for others and create balanced environments. This suggests an inner need to contribute meaningfully to family and community. In career choices, Dale may be drawn to teaching, counseling, healthcare, or other service-oriented professions. In relationships, Dale seeks harmony and love that brings warmth to the relationship,, finding fulfillment in supporting partners while maintaining domestic balance.

Personality Number:

7
Consonants: D(4), L(3) = 7

Number 7 represents spirituality, independence, and deep thinking. Dale's outer personality appears as someone who enjoys debating and reflecting on meaningful thoughts. Others likely perceive Dale as intuitive and confident. This personality flourishes in careers involving research, analysis, academics, or specialized knowledge. In social situations, Dale seems to prefer meaningful conversations to insubstantial gossip. In relationships, Dale needs intellectual stimulation and appreciates partners who can keep up with your cognitive vitality.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

8. Names similar to Dale

Like Dale ? What about:

Ahjin

Reade

Carina

Charlette

Bette

Aiden

Caden

Blaise

Caiden

Abigail

Bom

Laine

Chance

Bellamy

Carter

Charm

Mills

Adelyn

Benjamin

Bodie

Common sibling names

Sisters

Gianna

Rae

Abigail

Adalyn

Darcy

Camille

Wren

Addison

Bella

Elaine

Eliana

Grace

Reign

Nell

Genesis

Elianna

Adelyn

Blake

Delaney

Elise

Brothers

Caden

Bodie

Ford

Trey

Carter

Damien

Adrian

Brooks

Declan

Gabriel

Drake

Benjamin

Caleb

Elijah

Cayden

Eli

Bellamy

Gideon

Zac

Elias

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Jaime Babiera is a team leader at Infinity Web Solutions. As a former research intern at Rappler and contributor of op-ed pieces to the Daily Guardian, he developed expertise in rigorous information verification and published substantive editorial outputs driven by professional integrity and factual accuracy. His body of work reflects a strong commitment to truth, transparency, and excellence, ensuring every piece he releases or project he leads is reliable and compelling.

Dale

1. Dale name meaning and origin

References:

2. Dale name popularity

3. Dale in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

4. Celebrities with the Name Dale

5. Variations and nicknames of Dale

6. Best name combinations with Dale

names that pair well with Dale:

7. Numerology of Dale name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

Personality Number:

8. Names similar to Dale

Like Dale ? What about:

Common sibling names

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Dale

1. Dale name meaning and origin

References:

2. Dale name popularity

3. Dale in Popular Culture: Characters in Fiction

4. Celebrities with the Name Dale

5. Variations and nicknames of Dale

6. Best name combinations with Dale

names that pair well with Dale:

7. Numerology of Dale name

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire):

Personality Number:

8. Names similar to Dale

Like Dale ? What about:

Common sibling names

Generate a perfect name for your baby

Search by name

Here are 0 baby name ideas that should work for you and your baby:

Baby name lists including Dale

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