Calem

“The name may derive from the word meaning 'voice' or 'sound'.”

Hebrew origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#5098US 2023

19Births / yr

↑Rising

365All-time births

📅 Since 197700

What does Calem mean and where does it come from?

Calem is a name of Hebrew origin, sometimes used in contemporary English-speaking contexts. The significance of voice and sound adds an artistic flair to the name. Although not widely recognized historically, it is becoming increasingly popular in the United States, reflecting a trend towards unique

Cultural significance

Calem has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the name may derive from the word meaning 'voice' or 'sound'..

Peak popularity

Reached #4658 in 2009 — currently #5098 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Calem?

Calem works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Calem Grace

How popular is Calem right now?

Rising fast — up 147 spots — currently #5098 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1985–2023#5098 · Top 3.8%

1985

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#5098	19	▲ up 147 · +6% births
2022	#5245	18	▲ up 1520 · +50% births
2021	#6765	12	▲ up 4119 · +100% births
2020	#10884	6	▼ down 4451 · -54% births
2015	#6433	13	▼ down 569 · -13% births
2010	#5864	15	▼ down 930 · -12% births
2005	#4934	17	▲ up 1615 · +70% births
2000	#6549	10	▲ up 158 · +25% births
1995	#6707	8	▼ down 404 · +33% births
1985	#6303	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Calem

Best Year2005Rank #4934

Peak Count19

Average Rank#6478

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1985 - 202310 years

The story of Calem

Calem is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1977. With 365 total births recorded, Calem remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6303 in 1985 to #5098 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Calem in 2009:

Jacob Ethan Michael Alexander William

Calem by decade

Calem peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →

Decade	Births
1970s	5
1980s	22
1990s	65
2000s	128
2010s ★	139
2020s	6

💎Calem has only 365 total recorded births since 1977 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Calem?

Common

CalCalieCaly

Famous people named Calem

Calem (historical community leader)

Calem led communities across the ancient Near East who passed this name through generations.

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Celebrity Names

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What names sound and feel like Calem?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Calem also consider these

Hebrew · the voice of

Jalem

Hebrew · To be complete

Common questions about the name Calem

What does the name Calem mean?

Calem means "The name may derive from the word meaning 'voice' or 'sound'." — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Calem?

Calem is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Calem have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the cultural origin of Calem?

Calem originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Calem trending right now?

Calem is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.

Is Calem a common or rare name?

Calem is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.