“כָּלֵב” — Associated with qualities of loyalty and faithfulness
Hebrew origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#6703US 2023
13Births / yr
↑Rising
179All-time births
📅 Since 200000
How to pronounce Kalev
KAH·LEV
/ˈkɑ.ˈlɛv/ · stress on KAH · 2 syllables
“כָּלֵב”
Associated with qualities of loyalty and faithfulness · Hebrew origin
What does Kalev mean and where does it come from?
Kalev is a name of Hebrew origin meaning 'dog,' associated with qualities of loyalty and faithfulness. In addition to its Hebrew roots, the name has significance in Estonia, where it is steeped in local mythology as Kalev, a legendary hero. The name gained prominence in Estonian folklore, where Kale
Cultural significance
Kalev has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of כָּלֵב.
Peak popularity
Reached #4674 in 2014 — currently #6703 in the US.
Rising fast — up 1327 spots — currently #6703 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 2000–2023#6703 · Top 4.9%
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#6703
13
▲ up 1327 · +30% births
2022
#8030
10
▼ down 2364 · -37% births
2021
#5666
16
▲ up 1609 · +45% births
2020
#7275
11
▼ down 697 · -15% births
2015
#6578
13
▲ up 2855 · +63% births
2010
#9433
8
▲ up 495 · +14% births
2005
#9928
7
▲ up 2029 · +40% births
2000
#11957
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Kalev
2021Rank #5666
16
#8196
↗Rising
2000 - 20238 years
The story of Kalev
Kalev is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2000. With 179 total births recorded, Kalev remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11957 in 2000 to #6703 in 2023.
Kalev means "כָּלֵב" — 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 Kalev?
Kalev is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Kalev have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Kalev?
Kalev 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.
How do you pronounce the name Kalev?
Kalev is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 L EH1 V. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kalev trending right now?
Kalev is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Kalev
For a sister
Kalev & Abigail♡
Kalev & Eliana♡
Kalev & Naomi♡
Kalev & Maya♡
For a brother
Kalev & Noah♡
Kalev & Benjamin♡
Kalev & Levi♡
Kalev & Ezra♡
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