MallowbyNames

Caillou

kah-YOO · Of uncertain origin, likely a French diminutive; known from the Canadian children's television character.

Peak popularity
2001
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Declining since 2001

Declining since 2001.

Popularity of Caillou since 2001

Babies named Caillou per year in U.S. Social Security records.

12233520102020Most births 2001Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
2000s184
2010s68
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Caillou is a modern name that entered U.S. birth records in 2001, directly linked to the Canadian children's television series of the same name. The show, featuring a curious bald toddler, became a global phenomenon in the late 1990s and early 2000s, giving the name brief but notable visibility. In its debut year of 2001, Caillou reached its peak popularity, though it was never among the top 1000 names. Since then, its usage has steadily declined, reflecting the show's waning cultural presence. The name is a French word meaning 'pebble', often used as a pet name. Parents who choose Caillou today are likely nostalgic for the series or drawn to its soft, French sound. Its trajectory since 2001 shows a falling trend, and it has not appeared in top state rankings. As a media-inspired name, it remains a distinctive choice with strong pop-culture associations.

Caillou is a French word meaning 'pebble' or 'stone', and the name may derive from this as a term of endearment. The name was popularized globally by the Canadian children's animated television series 'Caillou', which first aired in 1997. The show's main character, a young bald boy, made the name familiar in English-speaking countries. Its use as a given name began in the early 2000s, coinciding with the show's peak popularity.

Sibling names for Caillou

Names that share Caillou's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Chloe, Emma, Lily, Sophie, Zoey

Brothers: Leo, Max, Noah, Owen, Theo

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

C is for Caillou, our favorite little boy.

C is for Caillou…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Caillou's letter becomes Caillou's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Caillou's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Caillou mean?
Caillou is a French word meaning 'pebble' or 'small stone', used as a term of endearment. The name was popularized by the Canadian children's television character.
How popular is the name Caillou?
Caillou first appeared in U.S. birth records in 2001, peaked in 2001, and has since fallen in use. It is not currently in the top 1000 baby names.
Is Caillou a boy's or girl's name?
Caillou is primarily used as a boy's name, inspired by the male character from the children's show.