What Does the Name Blake Mean?
Blake has a genuinely ambiguous meaning: it derives from either the Old English blæc, meaning "black" or "dark," or blac, meaning "pale" or "fair" -- two words that sounded alike and merged into one surname over time.
The Origin & History of Blake
Blake was originally an English surname, likely a nickname for someone with notably dark or notably fair hair and complexion. It moved into first-name use in the 20th century, initially more for boys, then increasingly for girls.
Cultural Reach
Blake carries literary weight through the English poet and artist William Blake, and has become one of the more balanced unisex names in the US, popularized further by actress Blake Lively.
Famous People Named Blake
Notable bearers include Blake Lively, the American actress known for Gossip Girl and A Simple Favor, and Blake Shelton, the American country singer and longtime coach on The Voice.
Nicknames & Variations
Blake is typically used as a complete name without shortened forms.
Is Blake a Good Name in 2026?
Blake remains a strong, versatile choice for both boys and girls, valued for its clean sound and genuine unisex use.