As a boy's name, from a surname derived from Middle English gaile, meaning 'jovial'. As a girl's name, a variant of Gail, a short form of Abigail, a Hebrew name meaning 'my father is joy'. It also matches the English word gale, 'strong wind'.
Vibe
strongpowerfulpoetic
How it ages.
A short, strong name with an airy, outdoorsy feel that suits any child.
The cultural moment.
Rare today: ranked #6581 for boys in the United States in 2025, and #15972 for girls in 2023.