Neal is a less popular version of Neil. It comes from the ancient Celtic people and the name Niall. As of 2021, Neal is number 3,400 for boys at rank 3,379.
Meaning of the name Neal:
Irish: passionate hero, cloud
English: passionate hero, cloud
Origin of the name Neal:
Neal is a spelling variation of the baby name Neil. Neil originated from the Irish option Niall. Niall has debated origins, with some saying it comes from the Celtic words “nitu” and “nia.” Others believe that Niall originated from the word “nel.” The Norse picked up on Niall, turning it into Njall. When they brought Njall to England, it became Neil and Neal.
Symbolism of the name Neal:
Neal has the same meanings as Neil and Niall. Niall, as mentioned, could come from the Celtic word “nel,” which means “cloud.” It could also be a combination of “nitu” and “nia,” which together translate to “passionate hero.”
Style of the name Neal:
Traditional
Gender of the name Neal:
Neal is a wholesome name for boys.
Pronunciation of the name Neal:
NEEL
Number of syllables in the name Neal:
One
Emotion evoked from the name Neal:
Neal is a strong and wholesome baby name. It remains simple and approachable.
Alternative spellings for the name Neal:
- Neil
- Neale
- Neyl
- Neyll
- Neill
- Neall
Nicknames for the name Neal:
- Al
- Nene
- Nea
- Eal
Popularity of the name Neal:
Neal was a top 1,000 baby name in America until 2002 when it was number 950. It ranked on the top 200 list one time at rank 198 in 1952. As of 2021, Neal was a top 3,400 option. More specifically, it is number 3,379 for boys.
Related names for the name Neal:
Great middle names for Neal and their meanings:
- Tobias (God is good)
- Zion (highest point)
- Irving (green, fresh water)
- Jasper (treasurer)
- Xavier (splendid, bright, new house)
- Maddox (benefactor's son)
- Roderick (glory, ruler)
- Matthew (gift of God)
Famous people with the name Neal:
- Neal McDonough (actor, “Walking Tall”)
- Neal Cassady (American beat persona)
- Neal Adams (comic book artist)
- Neal Walk (basketball player)
- Neal Schon (guitarist of Journey)
- Neal Hefti (jazz trumpeter)
- Neal Morse (rock musician)
- Neal Stephenson (novelist)
Neals in popular culture:
- Neal Caffrey (character from “White Collar”)
- Neal Burke (character from “White Collar”)
- Neal Cassidy (character from “Once Upon a Time”)
- Neal Scott (character from “This Golden Land”)