Neale

Neale is a name that functions as both a surname and a given name in English-speaking cultures. As a surname, Neale is an alternate spelling of Neal, derived from the given name Nicholas. The given name Nicholas comes from the Greek Nikolaos, meaning the victory of the people. The spelling Neale appears in medieval England and later spread to Ireland and North America through migration.

As a given name, Neale is uncommon and usually masculine, often used as a variant of Neal in families where the surname Neale appears in the lineage or as a deliberate archaism.

Notable bearers of the surname Neale have appeared across various fields, including politics, sports, science, and the arts. The name has several closely related spellings, including Neal, Neil, and Niall, which share the same origin.

Geographically, Neale occurs as a surname in many English-speaking regions and may also appear in place names and genealogical records. The usage and spelling of the name can vary by country and over time, reflecting broader patterns of Anglophone naming and migration.