What does Calvin mean and where does it come from?
While Calvin is traditionally a male name, its use as a female name has risen in modern contexts. The name originates from the French surname 'Cauvin', which means 'bald'. It was historically borne by notable figures, including John Calvin, a key figure in the Protestant Reformation. The name has be
Cultural significance
Calvin has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1781 in 1926 — currently #152 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Calvin?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Calvin?
Calvin works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Calvin Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Calvin Rose
Floral · soft ending
Calvin Mae
Sweet · timeless
Calvin Claire
French influence · crisp
Calvin Jane
Literary · strong
Calvin Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Calvin right now?
Holding steady — currently #152 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #152 | 2,410 | ▼ down 4 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #148 | 2,592 | ▼ down 3 |
| 2021 | #145 | 2,591 | ▲ up 10844 · +32288% births |
| 2020 | #10989 | 8 | ▲ up 809 · +33% births |
| 1995 | #11798 | 6 | ▼ down 2542 · -25% births |
| 1990 | #9256 | 8 | ▼ down 5127 · -58% births |
| 1985 | #4129 | 19 | ▲ up 1125 · +46% births |
| 1980 | #5254 | 13 | ▼ down 873 · -7% births |
| 1975 | #4381 | 14 | ▼ down 495 · -7% births |
| 1970 | #3886 | 15 | ▼ down 1139 · -25% births |
| 1965 | #2747 | 20 | ▼ down 547 · -29% births |
| 1960 | #2200 | 28 | ▲ up 647 · +75% births |
| 1955 | #2847 | 16 | ▲ up 224 · +33% births |
| 1950 | #3071 | 12 | ▼ down 317 · +9% births |
| 1945 | #2754 | 11 | — |
The story of Calvin
Calvin entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. More than 209,274 babies have been named Calvin since 1914. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3447 in 1915 to #152 in 2023. Calvin is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Calvin in 1926:
Calvin by decade
Calvin peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 1,236 | |
| 1890s | 1,102 | |
| 1900s | 1,291 | |
| 1910s | 5,744 | |
| 1920s | 24,945 | |
| 1930s | 14,283 | |
| 1940s | 19,334 | |
| 1950s ★ | 30,727 | |
| 1960s | 22,109 | |
| 1970s | 13,989 | |
| 1980s | 15,939 | |
| 1990s | 16,888 | |
| 2000s | 16,112 | |
| 2010s | 23,048 | |
| 2020s | 2,527 | |
What are good nicknames for Calvin?
What names sound and feel like Calvin?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Calvin also consider these
Common questions about the name Calvin
What does the name Calvin mean?
Calvin means "English" — a name rooted in France 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 Calvin?
Calvin is currently ranked #152 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Calvin?
Calvin originates from France tradition. France 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 Calvin?
Calvin is a two-syllable name pronounced K AE1 L V AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Calvin more of a girl or boy name?
Calvin is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.