Last Name Vale

Learn more about the origin of the last name Vale

The meaning and origin of the last name Vale

The surname Vale has multiple origins and meanings across different cultures. In English, it is derived from the Middle English word "vale," which means "valley." Hence, it could have been given to those who resided near or within a valley. In some cases, it may have been a topographic surname referring to someone who lived on or near a hill or slope. Vale can also have Portuguese origins, derived from the word "vale" meaning "valley" or "dale." In this context, it may have been an occupational name for someone who worked or lived in a valley. Another possibility is that it originated as a variation of the name Veal, an occupational name for a herdsman or a butcher. The surname Vale thus has geographical and occupational connotations linked to valleys, hillsides, and livestock-related activities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Vale

The last name Vale has a diverse geographical distribution, with concentrations in various parts of the world. In English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada, the name Vale can be found scattered throughout different regions. Additionally, it has a notable presence in other European countries like Portugal, Spain, and Italy. In Brazil, the last name Vale is quite prevalent, reflecting the country's historical ties with Portugal. Furthermore, it can also be found in other Latin American countries like Mexico and Argentina, suggesting possible migration patterns. In terms of Asia, countries like India and the Philippines have individuals with the last name Vale, possibly indicating influences from Portuguese colonization. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Vale spans across multiple continents and regions, indicating its widespread adoption in various cultures and communities.

Variants and spellings of the last name Vale

The last name Vale has a few variations and spellings depending on different regions and languages. In English-speaking countries, some variations include Vail, Veil, and Vaile. These variations are relatively similar and are likely derived from the original surname Vale. In other languages, the last name may have different spellings and pronunciations. For example, in Spanish-speaking countries, the name may be spelled Valé or Valéz. In Italy, it could be spelled Valle or Valletti. In some cases, the last name Vale may have been anglicized from other languages, resulting in variations like Wale or Walen. Considering the diverse origins and migrations of families over time, the variation in spelling and pronunciation of the last name Vale is not surprising. Nonetheless, despite these differences in spelling, these variations often trace back to a common ancestry with the name Vale.

Famous people with the last name Vale

There is no known famous person with the last name Vale. However, there have been individuals with similar names who have achieved fame in various fields. One notable figure is Val Kilmer, a highly acclaimed American actor known for his roles in movies such as "Top Gun" and "Batman Forever." Kilmer's talent and versatility have made him a well-respected name in Hollywood. Another distinguished personality is Gale Sayers, an American football legend who played for the Chicago Bears in the 1960s. Sayers was known for his exceptional skill as a running back and is regarded as one of the greatest players in NFL history. While there may not be any prominent public figures with the exact last name Vale, these individuals with similar names have left a lasting impact in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Vale

The last name Vale is derived from the Old English word "fæl" which means "valley." This surname is primarily found in England, particularly in the southwestern regions such as Devon and Cornwall. The earliest known recorded instance of this surname dates back to the 13th century, where a William de la Vale was registered in the Year Books of King Edward I's reign. Over time, the name Vale has been subject to variations and different spellings such as Vail, Veil, and Vele. The migration of individuals bearing the Vale surname includes them settling in various parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand during the 17th and 18th centuries. With its origin rooted in the English countryside, the Vale surname represents a connection to the geographic features and landscape of the southwestern region.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Vale"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025