Neal is a common male given name that has origins in both English and Irish cultures. It is often derived from the Gaelic name Niall, which means "champion" or "cloud." The name has been popular in various forms throughout history and is used in many countries. In addition to being a name, Neal can also refer to notable individuals, such as Neal Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, or Neal Stephenson, a well-known author in the science fiction genre. The name is versatile and can be found in various professions and fields.