Caleb

Meaning: possibly 'dog' or 'whole-hearted' · Origin: Hebrew · Gender: usually a boy's name

Origin & history

In the Bible Caleb was one of the two spies who trusted God's promise. The meaning is debated; it is often linked to kelev, 'dog' (faithfulness).

Nicknames

Cal, Cale

Variants & related names

Kaleb, Kalev

Caleb name art

A free preview of a printable “Caleb” poster with its meaning — great for a nursery, a birthday or a gift.

Instant download, no subscription. Not printed or shipped — you get a high-resolution PNG to print at home or at a print shop.

FAQ

What does the name Caleb mean?

Caleb means “possibly 'dog' or 'whole-hearted'”. It comes from Hebrew.

Is Caleb a popular name?

Yes — Caleb has been one of the most popular boys' names in the United States in the 2020s, according to US Social Security Administration baby-name data.

What are nicknames for Caleb?

Cal, Cale.

What are other forms of Caleb?

Kaleb, Kalev.

Similar names

Joshua · Nathan · Eli · Aaron · Ezekiel · Jonathan

More: names starting with C · all boys' names

Sources: standard name etymology references (e.g. Behind the Name, Oxford Dictionary of First Names); popularity from US SSA and UK ONS baby-name data. Meanings of old names are often debated — where scholars disagree we say so.