Kelvin

“from the river,”

Scottish origin · Unisex name

♂ 99% boys♀ 1% girls

#889US 2023

1.3kBirths / yr

→Stable

50.7kAll-time births

📅 Since 195600

How to pronounce Kelvin

KELV·un

/ˈkɛlv.ən/ · stress on KELV · 2 syllables

“from the river,”

Scottish origin · Unisex name

What does Kelvin mean and where does it come from?

Kelvin is originally a male name of Scottish origin, referring to the River Kelvin in Scotland. It has gained some usage as a female name, although it remains predominantly male. In Scottish, the name translates to 'from the river', reflecting geographical ties. The river is notable in Glasgow, wher

Cultural significance

Kelvin has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scottish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the river,.

Peak popularity

Reached #4001 in 1960 — currently #889 in the US.

🌿

How else can you spell Kelvin?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Kelvin?

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

Kelvin Grace

How popular is Kelvin right now?

Holding steady — currently #889 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1960–2023#889 · Top 0.66%

1960

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#889	1,311	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#894	1,291	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#899	1,261	▲ up 9722 · +17914% births
1995	#10621	7	▲ up 2504 · +40% births
1990	#13125	5	▼ down 6099 · -44% births
1985	#7026	9	▲ up 3553 · +80% births
1980	#10579	5	▼ down 5347 · -55% births
1975	#5232	11	▼ down 408
1970	#4824	11	▼ down 802
1965	#4022	11	▼ down 21
1960	#4001	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kelvin

Best Year2023Rank #889

Peak Count1,311

Average Rank#5647

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1960 - 202311 years

The story of Kelvin

Kelvin entered American naming records in 1956 and has been in use for over 68 years. A total of 50,681 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4001 in 1960 to #889 in 2023. Kelvin is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.

Names that peaked alongside Kelvin in 1960:

Mary Susan Linda Karen Donna

Kelvin by decade

Kelvin peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	11
1920s	61
1930s	182
1940s	229
1950s	5,201
1960s ★	11,952
1970s	8,007
1980s	7,237
1990s	7,431
2000s	6,264
2010s	3,867
2020s	239

What are good nicknames for Kelvin?

Common

KelKeElvin

What names sound and feel like Kelvin?

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

Kevin

American · handsome

Keldin

Scotland · Scottish Gaelic

Ireland · handsome, gentle, or

Melvin

American · mighty army

Belvin

English · beautiful valley

Common questions about the name Kelvin

What does the name Kelvin mean?

Kelvin means "from the river," — a name rooted in Scottish 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 Kelvin?

Kelvin is currently ranked #889 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 Kelvin?

Kelvin originates from Scottish tradition. Scottish 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 Kelvin?

Kelvin is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 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 Kelvin a common or rare name?

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