Cal: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced KAL · 1 syllable
A short form of the given names Caleb, Calum or Calvin.
- Origin
- English
- Pronunciation
- KAL
- US rank (2025)
- #542
- US babies a year
- about 388 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2020
- Style
- Rising
How popular is Cal?
Cal was the #542 name in the US in 2025, given to 554 babies. It’s rising: up 253% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #542 |
| Scotland | #426 |
| Ireland | #491 |
How old are people named Cal?
Half of US adults named Cal are older than 38; most are between 19 and 78. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Cal
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
Questions about Cal
How do you pronounce Cal?
Cal is pronounced KAL.
How popular is the name Cal?
Cal was the #542 name in the US in 2025, given to 554 babies. It’s rising: up 253% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
How old are people named Cal?
Half of US adults named Cal are older than 38. Most are between 19 and 78.