In recent years, Barcelona and other regions of Spain have seen a growing number of boys with a unique name that was once rare. This Celtic-origin name stands out for its melodious sound and is associated with generosity and ancient traditions. More and more parents are choosing it over more traditional classic options.
For a long time, Catalan families preferred traditional names, but that trend is changing. Short, memorable names with international appeal and foreign roots are becoming more popular. One of the most striking examples of this trend is the name Gael, which has confidently climbed the popularity rankings over the past twenty years.
A rapid rise
According to statistics, Gael is especially common in Barcelona. In 2023, 157 newborn boys in the city were given this name. Notably, in 2016 Gael ranked only 52nd, but soon climbed to 36th place. Since then, it has consistently been among the twenty most popular boys’ names in the region, and in 2021 it was even among the top names.
The name Gael has a double root, which adds to its appeal. On one hand, it is linked to the ancient Gaelic peoples of Ireland and Scotland. On the other, some researchers believe it originates from the Breton name Judicael, where ‘iud’ means ‘lord’ and ‘hael’ means ‘generous.’ This layered meaning only adds to the interest in the name, as it combines historical depth with contemporary flair.
Geography of popularity
Today, Gael ranks 23rd among boys’ names in Catalonia. In 2023, 7% of newborn boys received this name. It is also found in Tarragona and Girona, though not as commonly as in Barcelona. Across Spain, there are now more than 13,000 men with this name, with an average age of just seven. This shows that the name has only recently become popular.
Interestingly, Gael is not only used for boys. In Spain, there are 73 women registered with this name, most of whom are young. The highest concentration of boys named Gael is in the provinces of Pontevedra, Ourense, Lugo, and A Coruña, as well as in Burgos, Cantabria, León, Las Palmas, and, of course, Barcelona. Other regions where the name is found more frequently include Soria, Asturias, Madrid, and Huesca.
Influence of celebrities
The popularity of the name Gael is largely linked to famous individuals who bear it on the international stage. Actor Gael García Bernal has played a significant role, making the name associated with modernity, versatility, and a distinct charm. His on-screen success has made the name recognizable far beyond Spanish-speaking countries.
Many parents choose Gael for its sound, cultural connotations, or simply because it feels fresh and unique. In Catalonia, especially Barcelona, the name has already become one of the top trends of recent years. All signs suggest its popularity will only continue to grow.
