Kael is a unique and distinctive name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "akhal," which means "to dream." The name Kael is believed to have been popularized by American novelist Stephen King, who used it as the protagonist's name in his 1987 novel "Misery." However, the name has a rich history that predates its literary appearance.
In Jewish tradition, Khael is often associated with the biblical figure of Akhal, who was the son of Zibah and the father of Amasa. Akhal was a Berite, an inhabitant of Gilead, and his name signifies "dream" or "vision." This connection has led some to believe that the name Kael carries a deeper spiritual significance, suggesting that those bearing it may possess the ability to dream vividly or have prophetic visions.
Despite its Hebrew origins, the name Kael has gained popularity worldwide and is often used as an alternative spelling of the more common names like Caleb or Kaylee. It is particularly popular in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
In terms of pronunciation, Kael is typically pronounced as "KAEL," with the emphasis on the first syllable. The name can be both masculine and feminine, although its usage appears to lean more towards being a boy's name in recent years.
Overall, Kael is an intriguing and uncommon name that carries a meaningful connection to Hebrew tradition. While it may owe some of its popularity to modern literature, the name has a rich history and significant meaning that sets it apart from many other names.
The name Khael has been steadily gaining popularity in the United States over the past two decades, with a total of 102 births recorded since 2002. The year 2014 saw the highest number of babies named Khael, with twelve newborns sharing this unique moniker. While the number of births has fluctuated from year to year, there has been an overall upward trend in recent years, with ten births recorded in both 2020 and 2022. Despite its increasing popularity, Khael remains a relatively uncommon name, appearing on fewer than one hundredth of one percent of birth certificates issued annually in the United States. This scarcity may contribute to its appeal for parents seeking distinctive names for their children.