What does Caldwell mean and where does it come from?
Caldwell is an English name derived from a geographic location, meaning 'cold well'. It has been used as both a surname and a given name, especially in the United States where Scottish emigrants brought the name. The surname Caldwell has historical significance, associated with various locations in
Cultural significance
Caldwell has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in England-speaking communities, where it reflects values of cold well, or water spring.
Peak popularity
Reached #1240 in 1906 — currently #9901 in the US.
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Related Reading
England-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Caldwell?
Caldwell works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Caldwell Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Caldwell Rose
Floral · soft ending
Caldwell Mae
Sweet · timeless
Caldwell Claire
French influence · crisp
Caldwell Jane
Literary · strong
Caldwell Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Caldwell right now?
Falling — down 2053 spots — currently #9901 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #9901 | 7 | ▼ down 2053 · -30% births |
| 2022 | #7848 | 10 | ▲ up 2040 · +43% births |
| 2021 | #9888 | 7 | ▼ down 1873 · -22% births |
| 2020 | #8015 | 9 | ▲ up 4126 · +80% births |
| 2015 | #12141 | 5 | ▲ up 172 |
| 2010 | #12313 | 5 | ▼ down 4073 |
| 1990 | #8240 | 5 | ▼ down 4632 · -17% births |
| 1955 | #3608 | 6 | ▼ down 1107 · -40% births |
| 1950 | #2501 | 10 | ▲ up 333 · +43% births |
| 1945 | #2834 | 7 | ▲ up 114 |
| 1940 | #2948 | 7 | ▲ up 412 · +17% births |
| 1935 | #3360 | 6 | ▼ down 1117 · -54% births |
| 1930 | #2243 | 13 | ▲ up 1249 · +86% births |
| 1925 | #3492 | 7 | ▼ down 1392 · -56% births |
| 1920 | #2100 | 16 | — |
The story of Caldwell
Caldwell entered American naming records in 1906 and has been in use for over 118 years. With 583 total births recorded, Caldwell remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1768 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #9901 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Caldwell in 1906:
Caldwell by decade
Caldwell peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 13 | |
| 1910s | 113 | |
| 1920s ★ | 115 | |
| 1930s | 73 | |
| 1940s | 89 | |
| 1950s | 47 | |
| 1960s | 12 | |
| 1970s | 6 | |
| 1980s | 10 | |
| 1990s | 18 | |
| 2000s | 23 | |
| 2010s | 55 | |
| 2020s | 9 | |
💎Caldwell has only 583 total recorded births since 1906 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Caldwell?
What names sound and feel like Caldwell?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Caldwell also consider these
Common questions about the name Caldwell
What does the name Caldwell mean?
Caldwell means "cold well, or water spring" — a name rooted in England tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Caldwell?
Caldwell is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Caldwell?
Caldwell originates from England tradition. England names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Caldwell?
Caldwell is a two-syllable name pronounced K AO1 L D W EH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Caldwell a common or rare name?
Caldwell is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.