First found in Hampshire, where they were seated since the Norman invasion of 1066. The name Gentle comes from the Old French word "gent," meaning "well-born" or "noble." It could be a literal name, referring to someone who actually was well-born, or it may have been an ironic nickname, for someone who put on airs of aristocracy.

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Jean Gentil, who came to Louisiana in 1719; at the tender age of 19; as well as Jacques Gentil, who arrived in Louisiana a year later. Many others were to follow, including Andrew Gentle, who arrived in New York in 1812 and Elizabeth Gentry, who arrived in New York in 1862.

For more information on the last name Gentle, the PDF Surname History is available for purchase as well as other products.