Find out how popular the first name Kaleab has been for the last 27 years (from 1998 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kaleab by gender

Based on the last 27 years of data, Kaleab is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Kaleab.

The history of the first name Kaleab

The name Kaleab has its origins in the Ge'ez language of ancient Eritrea and Ethiopia. Ge'ez is a Semitic language that served as the liturgical language of the Ethiopian and Eritrean Orthodox churches. The name is derived from the Ge'ez root word "kal'ab," which means "heart" or "mind."

In the Ge'ez tradition, the name Kaleab was often associated with individuals who were considered wise, insightful, or possessing a deep understanding of spiritual matters. It was a name given to those who were believed to have a strong connection to their inner selves and a deep appreciation for the divine.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kaleab can be found in the Ge'ez version of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Exodus. Here, the name is mentioned as one of the sons of Judah, a patriarch of the Israelites.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Kaleab. One of the most famous was Kaleab Wolde-Tensae (1905-1997), an Ethiopian writer, historian, and linguist who played a significant role in preserving and promoting the Ge'ez language and culture.

Another prominent figure was Kaleab Tessema Iona (1898-1977), an Ethiopian politician and diplomat who served as the first Ethiopian ambassador to the United States in the 1940s.

In the realm of religion, Kaleab Belay (1881-1948) was an Ethiopian Orthodox monk and scholar who made significant contributions to the study of Ge'ez literature and manuscripts.

Kaleab Desta (1946-2021) was a renowned Ethiopian athlete who excelled in long-distance running and won numerous international competitions, including the Boston Marathon in 1973.

Finally, Kaleab Taye (born 1985) is a contemporary Ethiopian entrepreneur and businessman who has made a name for himself in the technology and hospitality industries.

These individuals, spanning various fields and time periods, demonstrate the enduring presence and significance of the name Kaleab throughout history, rooted in its deep cultural and linguistic origins.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Kaleab was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Kaleab, please contact us.

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