The name Cam finds its origins in the ancient Gaelic language, with roots dating back to the 5th century CE. Originally spelled as "Camm," it is believed to have derived from the Gaelic word "cam," meaning "crooked" or "bent." This name was likely given to individuals with some form of physical disability or deformity, though the connotation was not necessarily negative.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Cam can be found in the Irish Annals, which document the life of Cam Inghen Briain, a prominent 11th-century Irish princess and daughter of the legendary king Brian Boru. Her name appears in various historical texts and chronicles from that period.

In the 12th century, Cam Bhrigte, also known as St. Cam, was a revered Irish monk and religious scholar. He is credited with founding several monasteries and is recognized as a patron saint of the Diocese of Derry in Northern Ireland.

During the Middle Ages, the name Cam gained popularity across Scotland and parts of northern England. One notable bearer was Cam Mackintosh, a 14th-century Scottish chieftain and warrior who played a significant role in the Wars of Scottish Independence against the English.

In the 16th century, Cam ap Phylip, a Welsh poet and bard, gained recognition for his contributions to the literary tradition of Wales. His works were widely celebrated and preserved in various anthologies of the time.

Moving into the 17th century, Cam Brace, an English soldier and explorer, embarked on several expeditions to the Americas and documented his travels in a series of journals, providing valuable insights into the colonial era.

As the name Cam continued to evolve and spread across different cultures, it has been borne by numerous notable individuals throughout history, including Cam Neely, a Canadian professional ice hockey player and member of the Hockey Hall of Fame, and Cam Newton, an American football quarterback who won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 2010.