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

Popularity of Kalyn by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Kalyn is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 95% of people named Kalyn being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 10 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Kalyn.

The history of the first name Kalyn

The name Kalyn is believed to have its origins in the ancient Celtic languages, with roots traceable to the Celtic word "cailín," meaning "young girl" or "maiden." This name has been in use for centuries, particularly in regions of the British Isles where Celtic culture and language held sway.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Kalyn can be found in Irish folklore and mythology. In the legendary tales of the Fianna, a band of warrior-hunters, there is a character named Caílín, who is described as a beautiful and brave young woman. While the precise historical accuracy of these tales is uncertain, they offer a glimpse into the antiquity of the name's usage.

During the Middle Ages, the name Kalyn gained popularity among the Celtic populations of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. It was not uncommon for families to bestow this name upon their daughters, as it carried connotations of youthful beauty and virtue. Several historical records from this period, including parish registers and census records, contain variations of the name, such as Cailin, Cailyne, and Kaylyne.

Throughout history, there have been notable figures who bore the name Kalyn. One such individual was Kalyn Douglas, a Scottish noblewoman from the 15th century, known for her involvement in the Wars of the Roses. Another notable bearer of the name was Kalyn MacLeod, a 16th-century Scottish chieftain and clan leader, renowned for her bravery and leadership during times of conflict.

In the realm of literature, the name Kalyn has also made appearances. In the 19th century, Irish author James Joyce featured a character named Kalyn in his seminal novel, "Ulysses." This literary reference further solidified the name's association with Irish and Celtic culture.

Other notable individuals who have carried the name Kalyn include Kalyn O'Toole, an Irish politician and activist from the early 20th century, and Kalyn McIntyre, a Scottish artist and sculptor whose works were widely celebrated in the mid-20th century.

While the name Kalyn has ancient roots and a rich tapestry of historical associations, its popularity has ebbed and flowed over the centuries. Nonetheless, its enduring presence in various cultures and time periods serves as a testament to its timeless appeal and the enduring influence of Celtic 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 Kalyn was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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