Find out how popular the first name Kalen has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kalen by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Kalen is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 77% of people named Kalen being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 56 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Kalen.

The history of the first name Kalen

The name Kalen is believed to have originated from the Gaelic language, with roots dating back to ancient Celtic cultures. The name is thought to be derived from the word "calen," which means "slender" or "small." This suggests that the name was initially given to individuals with a slender or petite build.

In the early medieval period, the name Kalen was prevalent among the Celtic peoples of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. It was often used as a personal name for both males and females, although it became more commonly associated with males over time. Historical records indicate that variations of the name, such as "Calen" and "Callan," were also in use during this era.

One of the earliest known references to the name Kalen can be found in the Annals of Ulster, a chronicle of medieval Irish history. The name is mentioned in an entry dated 1022 CE, referring to a nobleman named Kalen O'Conor. This suggests that the name had gained prominence among the Irish nobility by the 11th century.

Throughout the Middle Ages and into the Renaissance period, the name Kalen continued to be used across various regions of Europe, particularly in areas with Celtic influences. Notable historical figures bearing the name include:

1. Kalen Erskine (1509-1587), a Scottish nobleman and diplomat who served as Lord High Treasurer of Scotland under King James VI.
2. Kalen O'Donnell (1561-1628), an Irish chieftain and military leader who played a significant role in the Nine Years' War against English forces in Ireland.
3. Kalen MacLeod (1612-1672), a Scottish poet and writer renowned for his works in the Gaelic language.
4. Kalen McDermott (1725-1798), an Irish-born American soldier who fought in the American Revolutionary War.
5. Kalen Fitzgerald (1819-1892), an Irish-American politician and lawyer who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York.

While the name Kalen has its roots in Celtic cultures, it has since spread to other parts of the world and has been adopted by various linguistic communities. However, its historical significance and enduring connection to its Gaelic origins remain an integral part of its cultural heritage.

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 Kalen was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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