hale

Hale is an English word meaning in good health. The phrase "hale and hearty" attests to the sense of robust health. The adjective hale derives from Old English hal, meaning sound or whole. In addition to its common noun use, Hale is also used as a proper noun in place names and surnames.

Hale as a surname and given name. It is a common English surname and is used as a given name in some cases. Notable bearers include Nathan Hale (1755–1776), an American Revolutionary figure who served as a spy for the Continental Army and was executed by the British. The name has been borne by various other figures in politics, arts, and science.

Geography. There are places named Hale in the United Kingdom, including Hale in Cheshire and Hale in Greater Manchester. In the United States, several towns and townships bear the name Hale, reflecting English influence on place names.

See also: Hale (disambiguation).